A Wimbledon shop assistant played his part in the Paralympic games this week after attending a special event at the Olympic Park
A Wimbledon shop assistant played his part in the Paralympic games this week, after his manager nominated him to attend a special event at the Olympic Park.
Zahid Shaikh, a customer assistant at Sainsbury’s on Wimbledon Broadway, was one of 5,000 employees who were given the chance to watch wheelchair basketball, goalball and wheelchair tennis.
He said that seeing the paralympians in action was extremely inspriring.
“It definitely gave me more respect for the Paralympic athletes,” said Mr Shaikh.
“It was an unforgettable day and there was a really good environment,” he added.
The once in a lifetime opportunity was part of Sainsbury’s celebration of their sponsorship of the London 2012 Paralympic Games.
An additional 70 colleagues, who can bring a guest each, have also been fortunate enough to bag an invite to the Closing Ceremony on Sunday night.
Overall, the store has given away 18,000 tickets to customers and staff through promotions and competitions, and staff have continued to show their support by wearing custom made t-shirts designed by two fellow colleagues.
Jacki Connor, Director Colleague Engagement, said: “We’re so proud to sponsor the London 2012 Paralympic Games and it’s fantastic to have 5,000 colleagues here today taking part in the events at the Olympic Park.
“It really brings our sponsorship to life and is just one of the opportunities we’ve given to people to take part and raise awareness of the amazing skills and sportsmanship of the Paralympic athletes.
“By taking our staff to watch the Games in action, it’s a way for us to say thank you and to celebrate their hard work and success.”
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