The countdown has begun for Maryport Paralympian Simon Lawson.

The biggest race of his life begins at 12.30pm in Rio this Sunday.

Viewers in Britain should be able to watch the race on Channel 4 at 4.30pm our time.

While he is a hero to many here, Simon is keen to point out that he is not a “super human”.

He said disabled athletes are athletes, the same as those who are able-bodied.

“We train hard, just as they do. We are not super humans.”

This race could change the Maryport man’s life.

He missed out on the London games because he took ill. This time he is healthy, and his times make him a realistic medal prospect.

“It could all come down to tactics rather than timing,” Simon said last week, prior to heading off to South America.

“My times are good but it depends how the race goes on the day.”

He will also have to deal with the heat. The race starts during the hottest part of a day on which the forecast is for a maximum temperature of 32 degrees.

Winning means more than the glory of a Paralympian medal – it also means funding.

Medal winners receive more support from Sport England. They also attract sponsorship and “appearance fees” for major races.

“When you start out you have to register for events along with everyone else,” he said. “If you are successful, you may get invited to take part, which means your costs are covered.

“The elite get the appearance fees – money for turning up.

“After my accident in 2001 I needed to get out and get active. I was fit before the accident and wanted to stay that way.

“Doing miles each day helped keep me fit but, more than that, it stopped me from sitting at home and dwelling on what had happened.

“I hope that I and events like the Paralympics can inspire others.”

Simon said he has been overwhelmed by the generosity of West Cumbrians who have supported him with money and well wishes.

If he could win a medal, with all that attracts, it would make his career easier.

“My racing chair cost over £3,000. A pair of carbon fibre wheels are £1,500. I use the old wheels for practice but I would never go into a race without new ones. Then, of course, there is the tyres on top of that.”

Getting to Paralympian standard means that he has raced around the world. In fact, two days after the Rio marathon he is due in Berlin for another event.