The Editor, Sir:

Sarah Newland Martin mentioned in the article ('No mountain too high', October 14) how hurt she was that some of the people she grew up with have not been able to cope, but she obviously does not realise the assets she has, which they may not have. She has a sense of humour, an indomitable spirit, a bright mind and a determination to make her actions count.

During her swimming career, there was not much emphasis put on people, who were classified as amputees and who did not have spinal problems, and so she did not have as many opportunities to make her mark.

This is probably what made her feel that she could do the Cross Harbour Race and why she would not accept her coach John (not George) Lopezs opinion that it might be too hard for her.

As she grew older and started to work, she decided to take courses and do all that she thought would help her to be a more competent person in the working world. She went through her periods of frustration and unhappiness and had to be encouraged to use her strengths to move forward, and she has certainly succeeded.

I do not think that there is any challenge that Sarah would not willingly take on, as long as she thought it would be of benefit.

She has become a leader and a pacesetter, and there are not many of us in this world who can follow her lead, even though we are inspired by her example. Congratulations on your life, Sarah.

I am, etc.,

VIV

stucar@kasnet.com