NOBODY was more delighted at Samantha Kinghorn's selection for the Rio Paralympics than her parents.

Elaine and Neil were so confident of their girl's credentials they booked their flights for Brazil back in May.

And their confidence was rewarded last Tuesday when it was confirmed the Gordon wheelchair racer will compete over 100 metres, 400 metres and 800 metres at the Games.

Samantha told the Border Telegraph: "You sort of expect to be selected but you are never certain so it was a relief when I got word.

"I am really looking forward to getting over there to compete.

"My times have been good this year and I've prepared as well as I could."

The 20-year-old, who was paralysed from the waist down in a freak accident at the family home six years ago, has become Britain's leading T53 racer.

As well as claiming bronze over 200 metres at the World Championships, she has three European titles - 100, 400 and 800 - to her name.

Sammi also finished a highly creditable fifth in the Commonwealth Games 1500 metres despite racing against the more mobile T54 competitors.

She admits the Commonwealth Games has given her a liking for multi-sport competitions.

"The Commonwealth Games was incredible. I'm so used to being around athletics but the multi sport environment puts you together with so many different athletes from so many different sports.

"I'm really excited about the Paralympics as I will be part of this really big team where we will also be shouting for each other."

Samantha, who continues to train three times a week at Tweedbank as well as a weekly session with coach Ian Mirfin in Glasgow, will fly out to Team GB's holding camp in Brazil on August 25.

Prior to heading for South America she will compete at the Scottish Championships in Grangemouth on August 14.

Samantha has also joined swimmer Ross Murdoch and track cyclist Katie Archibald to become Team Strathmore brand ambassadors.

Working with a number of sporting partners and events, including Scottish Swimming and Scottish Athletics, Strathmore will deliver a year-long campaign which will include inspiration, tips and techniques for all levels, not to mention some once-in-a-lifetime opportunities for Scots to get involved.

Samantha added: “It’s great to be joining Katie and Ross on Team Strathmore.

"The message I want to get across as part of the Do More campaign is that everyone should, and could, get involved in swimming, running or cycling.

"No one should feel intimidated, that it’s too late, or that they’re too busy.

“It’s hopefully going to be a successful summer for Scots at the Olympics, and we hope the buzz will help us encourage more people to get active!”