A University of Reading student will be cheered on by peers, staff, and alumni when he rows for Great Britain at the Paralympics on Friday, August 30.

21-year-old Ed Fuller, who studies Geography, will row the PR3 Mixed coxed four, which is, historically, Great Britain and Northern Ireland’s most successful boat at the Paralympic Games.

Mr Fuller already has three World Championship medals under his belt, and is now gunning for gold at the Paralympics.

The rower has haemophilia, which prevents the blood from clotting properly and meant he had to use a wheelchair when younger.

He still has to have regular injections to manage the blood disorder.

But the condition didn't stop him from trying out a wide array of sports including hockey, swimming, and cycling, until he fell in love with rowing after watching it at the London 2012 Olympic Games.

He has refined his rowing skills at Reading University's Boat Club over the past three years.

Mr Fuller said: "Studying at Reading has meant I have been able to train with an amazing team of coaches and colleagues who have all helped me get to where I am today.

"My Geography lecturers have also been really helpful and supportive of me on my journey.

"I hope I can be successful in Paris so I can say thank you to everyone who has helped me along the way."

Stuart Black, of the School of Archaeology, Geography, and Environmental Science, said: "We are all incredibly proud of Ed and also his team mates as they compete at the Paris Paralympics.

"Ed has very successfully managed the academic studies for his degree alongside incredibly demanding training and competition schedules.

"We look forward to welcoming Ed back later in September for the second year of his degree.

"I am certain he will continue to inspire many of us - not least in time management, team working, and overcoming difficulties to succeed at the highest possible level."

Will Rand, director of rowing at Reading University Boat Club, said: "Ed has been a complete professional from the first day he started rowing in Reading.

"He has a natural talent for rowing, but he is equally hard-working and determined.

"Every day he inspires us, especially when you think about the challenges he has faced.

"We can’t wait to watch Ed represent Reading in Paris."

Mr Fuller's first event at the Paralympics will take place on Friday, August 30.