Future Olympians scoop medals at youth games (From Swindon Advertiser)

Future Olympians scoop medals at youth games

11:40am Saturday 7th July 2012 in London Olympics 2012 - Latest News By Alexandra Rucki

Future Olympians having being scooping medals for Merton during the Balfour Beatty London Youth Games.

Youngsters from the borough were awarded medals during the games finals last weekend in Crystal Palace.

Teao Hughes won individual silver in aquathlon, while Athena Lewis-Gkogka scored an individual Bronze in gymnastics.

Miss Lewis-Gkogka has competed for Merton for a number of years, taking part in diving, swimming and aquathlon in previous competitions.

She said: "To win the bronze medal in the Girls Gymnastics Floor competition for Merton has been an amazing and unexpected achievement but one which certainly makes all the years of training worthwhile."

Madeline Sweet just missed out on a medal and came fourth in diving, while Joshua Clark-Bell came fifth in the individual Judo competition.

The Balfour Beatty London Youth Games is Europe’s largest annual youth sports event.

Councillor Nick Draper, cabinet member for community and culture, said: "I want to congratulate all the young people from Merton who competed at the London Youth Games.

"Getting to the final demands tremendous dedication from our young people, as well as skill and prowess, and they should be proud.

"Thanks too to all the adults who organized, trained and supported them on the way, you make a huge difference and it’s really appreciated."