A TEENAGE super swimmer has proved that people with learning disabilities can overcome their problems to shine in other areas.

Chris Pugh, 15, who suffers from dyslexia, could make his debut at the Sydney Olympics if he performs well at a competition in Germany.

A pupil at Green Hall School in Atherton, he is hoping to give his lifetime best performance at the International Open German Championship in Berlin next month. If he does he can book a ticket to Australia for the once-in-a-lifetime experience of competing at the Olympics.

Over the years Chris (pictured), who trains morning and night, has won a sideboard of trophies for his swimming prowess.

He is currently the Cheshire junior champion at 100 and 200 butterfly, and lies seventh nationally for the 200 butterfly.

His love of swimming began at the age of eight, and since then he has trained daily at a swimming pool in Stockport.

His dad Dave, of Chillingham Drive, Leigh, said: "He loves to swim. A usual day includes Chris going to school, and then straight on to his swimming lessons. But the time we get back it's about 7pm and he is so shattered that after tea he goes to bed."

About twice a week Chris also trains before school, which means an early rise of 4.30am.

Chris is due to leave school this summer and intends carrying on his education by studying sport and coaching at college.

Dave said: "We are very proud of Chris who puts his all into his swimming."