Waterford athlete Hayley Fitzsimons travels to Germany later this month to compete for Ireland at the World Dwarf Games.

Hayley was born with a form of dwarfism called achondroplasia and will represent Ireland at the world games for the third time.

The Portlaw native previously competed at the 2013 and 2017 games throwing the discus, javelin and shot put, but has now opted over to the track, away from the field.

Hayley has told WLR Sport about some of the challenges she and others with dwarfism face on a regular basis, saying, "Every day you're walking the street in your hometown and you're the one that stands out from the crowd because you're the only little person or the only person with dwarfism. Everyone stares and points at you and you always feel like you're not included in society, or society doesn't include you.  When you go to these games it's a different experience. Those of average height are often the ones who stand out from the crowd."

She will run in the 4X100 metre relay, as well as playing the bocha tournament in this year's games.

Hayley has been speaking with WLR Sport as she finalises preparations for the off.

The athletes who are traveling are seeking support from the public to help fund their journey to Cologne. Donations can be made on the iDonate page.