Lawler joins Larson for Queen's Baton Relay
SWIMMING: Champion Gladstone swimmer Ruby Lawler was brimming with excitement today when she joined rugby league legend Gary Larson at the 2018 Commonwealth Games Queen's Baton Relay announcement.
Lawler got the chance to rub shoulders with Larson and other dignitaries at the Gladstone Entertainment Convention Centre as the full list of Gladstone Baton bearers was announced.
"I'm very excited and honoured to be representing Gladstone - It's so exciting and I can't wait,” she said.
"I was really excited and I couldn't believe I was picked. Lots of people would want this opportunity so I'm very proud.
"I haven't told any of my friends yet, but now I'll be telling everyone - I think they'll be very excited.
"I'm not going to run... I'm just going to walk and take it easy so I can enjoy every moment of it.”
The 23-year-old specialises in long-distance swimming and is currently training for the Special Olympics Australia National Games in Adelaide from April 16-20, held the day after the Commonwealth Games closing ceremony.
Lawler has been swimming competitively for 10 years and is a Youth Ambassador for people with disability, and an Athlete Representative on the Board of Directors for Special Olympics Australia.
Ruby's mother Suzie is unsure who nominated her daughter for the relay, but is immensely proud of what she's achieved..
"She's worked really hard to get where she is and she's a great mentor to other people and a great advocate for people with disabilities in the community,” Ms Lawler said.
"She's very motivated and very inspired by others and that's what keeps her going everyday.”
The Queen's Baton will pass through the Gladstone region on Saturday, March 24.
BATON BEARERS FROM THE GLADSTONE REGION
Ian Anderson
Maxine Brushe
Pamela Cawthray
Pauline Dahl
Allan Davis
Jonathan Easton
Larry Halbert
Lyn Harms
Jamie Hartwig
Tracy Hopkins
Neale Inskip
Debbie Knust
Laura Koefler
Gary Larson
Ruby Lawler
Deanne Lawson
Jenny McLeod
Betty Mergard
Dianne Morris
Donald Morris
Bob Moschoni
Chris Palfrey
Mia Poustie.
