This just in from the council, in their own words. Well done to all the young people who took part. Ed
Sixteen young athletes from the Isle of Wight have returned with four medals from a successful trip to the annual World Island Youth Games in Sicily.
All four medals came from the athletics team, although several personal bests were also set by members of the swimming team. The sailing team also performed well competing against athletes who were much older and vastly more experienced.
Bronze in 1500m
The Isle of Wight’s first medal was secured by Carla Roberts in the girls 1500m event.
Carla ran a very well planned race throughout, never losing touch with the leading group and picked up an excellent bronze medal.
Silver in 4x100m girls relay
The second medal for the Island came in the 4 x 100m girls relay team, which has provided the Island with medal before.
In a very eventful race where teams were disqualified in both heats the Island team of Annabelle Marsh, Polly Hopper, Holly Newton and Taylor Canning ran an excellent race securing silver.
Silver in 3000m
Tom Newnham already very successful in events in this country and secured a silver medal in the 3000m event.
Bronze in 200m
Polly Hopper also added to her medal in the relay by securing individual success in the girls 200m where she came third.
Personal bests in swimming
In swimming, all the Island’s four athletes of Gemma Wall, Patrick Webb, Jordan Paulet and Isabella Blacklock secured personal bests in all their races.
Sailing
In sailing, Josh Atherton ended the week in a credible 11th place finish, with his younger brother Daniel not far behind in 14th. In the Girls regatta Sophie Heritage and Sophie Baker had a good event with Sophie Baker finishing 14th and Sophie Heritage finishing 10th, just two points away from seventh.
Strong competition
Team Isle of Wight Manager Lee Matthews said “This year’s field was very tough, especially as our team were missing several older athletes due to clashes with exams.
“This means that winning four medals is even more impressive and puts the team in good stead for future years. All the athletes can be proud of their efforts.
The Isle of Wight is now preparing to host June’s NatWest Island Games, which is held between 25 June – 1 July.
