English Schools

There was double success this week for our athletes. Sixth formers Maddie Hinch and Ross Turner have both been selected to represent Somerset at the English Schools National Championships.

Both are javelin throwers, and both came fourth in the country last year as intermediate age group athletes. Now they step up a year as seniors, but both have their sights firmly set on going one step better than last year, and finishing in the medals.

Maddie has already thrown 37.33 metres this year, which is considerably beyond the automatic national entry standard, while Ross has thrown 57.63, the fourth longest throw in the country this year. In addition to her athletic prowess, Maddie has also won four England Under 18 hockey caps this year, and is regarded as one of the top two goalkeepers in the country.

"It's good to be able to train with a nationally ranked thrower like Ross", said Maddie. "We really spur each other on, though of course he throws it a bit further than me!"

The National Championships take place at the Gateshead International Stadium on Friday 7th July and Saturday 8th.