Fencing
Torch experience inspires Powell

AFTER carrying the Olympic Torch through Oldbury, fencing starlet Elisabeth Powell was left dreaming of shining under the lights at Rio de Janeiro in 2016.

The 16-year-old, who represented Great Britain Under 17s at the Word Cadet Championships in Moscow in April, was selected to bear the flame by Lloyds TSB for her commitment to the sport and her inspirational achievements.

The Woodrush High School student is one of around 300 athletes on the Lloyds TSB Local Heroes programme to receive £1,000 of funding in the pursuit of their sporting dreams, something she has achieved for the third year running.

And, after getting a small taster of the atmosphere and spirit of the Olympic Games, Powell's resolve to represent her country on the grandest stage has been strengthened even further.

"I think it's every athlete's dream to compete at the Olympics and I'm no different," said Powell. "Carrying the Torch has made me even more determined.

"It was an amazing experience and a once in a lifetime opportunity to be part of such a special occasion like that.

"It was such a surprise to be selected for it, I really didn't see it coming at all and I'm so grateful I got the chance.

"I'm volunteering at the Olympics as a young games maker too and I can't wait to get involved. It's going to be very exciting."

Powell won gold at the Junior Under 20 Commonwealth Fencing Championship with England in February and finished the season as the British Under 17 women's epee champion and second in the Under 20 British women's epee rankings.

And, with the season over, you would forgive her for enjoying a well earned rest, but Powell is already preparing for her assault on the new campaign.

"It's the end of the season at the moment so for now I'm just training," added Powell, who will be one of more than 2,000 16 to 18-year-olds volunteering at London 2012.

"The new season starts up in September. In August I've got a training camp in Tauber in Germany before the Under 20 junior competitions start. It's a step up for me and I'm looking forward to the challenge.

"There will be a lot of hard work but that's what I've got to do. I want to try and make the European Junior Championships next year and if not then definitely the year after."

As the only National Presenting Partner of the London 2012 Olympic Torch Relay, Lloyds TSB is bringing the excitement of the Games and Olympic Flame closer to you.

Find out what they are doing in your community and who is carrying the Flame at lloydstsb.com/olympictorchrelay.

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