Games success for young Olivia (From Barry And District News)

Games success for young Olivia

A BARRY gymnast has just returned from representing her country in the Commonwealth Games, at Manchester.

At 14, Olivia Bryl, of Usk Wy, Cwmtalwg, is Wales' youngest athlete, and one of the youngest competitors in the tournament.

Born and bred in Barry, Olivia trains for four hours, six days a week, at Barry YMCA Gymnastics Club.

She helped Wales achieve fifth place in the Commonwealth Games, being narrowly beaten into fourth place by New Zealand.

Olivia's mother Jacqueline Bryl said: "All her family and friends went to see her compete. It was a fantastic experience and she was one of the youngest athletes in the competition.

We are all very proud."

In the closing ceremony, Olivia was one of five Welsh athletes to parade the flag.

But the young star refuses to be overwhelmed by all the attention she receives.

"I was a bit nervous," she said, "But I soon got over it. We all did really well. My friends and family have been very helpful."

Her mother adds Olivia is an "experienced traveller." She has competed in Belgium, Finland, Norway, Iceland, and South Africa.

Her first international tournament was held in Ohio, USA, when only eight years old. Olivia was introduced to the sport at Barry YMCA when she was only four, and she now trains alongside her Welsh teammate and fellow Barrian, Holly Templeton.

Olivia's mother says she is coping well at her school, Bryn Hafren Comprehensive, despite the lessons she has missed.

"Her teachers are full of praise for her and are very understanding," Mrs Bryl said.

The athlete is now going to Spain with her family for a much needed rest. "She has trained and worked very hard. She deserves this," her mother added.