RGS Worcester Pupils Fence at 2016 School Games

22 Sep 2016

Abigail Watkins, (14) and Danielle Lawson (18), from RGS Worcester have made it through to the National Finals of the Olympic style, 2016 School Games to be held at Loughborough University from Wednesday 31 August until Sunday 4 September.

The 2016 School Games will give a good insight into the make-up of teams for the 2020 Olympic and Paralympic Games. The event mirrors the real Olympics with opening and closing ceremonies, and a residential village for home nation competitors.

Danielle, who is ranked second in the Great Britain Under 20 category, will represent England in Fencing, said:

“I am so excited to have been selected to represent England for the second year, following in the foot steps of many School Games Alumni who have medaled in Rio.

It was so exciting to watch the GB Fencers competing at the Olympics; their performance was thrilling and GB was so close to its first fencing medal since 1964. I hope it has inspired a new generation of fencers, as it has inspired me to further pursue my fencing career to the next level.”

Abigail, who is ranked 17th in the Great Britain Under 17 category, will represent Wales in Fencing, said:

“I am very excited about the Games as it is just like a mini Olympics’ where the athletes live in a village for the three days. Over the last year, I have worked on my fitness and technique with my coach John Rees with the support of Sports Worcester, CG5 and Mr Pitt, Headmaster at RGS Worcester.

I have represented Wales at regional level in Cadet Winton, The Senior Winton Cups and GBR Under 17 in Copenhagen and Bratislava. The School Games are my first selection for Wales at Under 18 National level.

I was inspired by the 2012 Canadian Pentathlon fencers when they visited Malvern Hills Swords Club and now my goal is to work hard and get sponsorship so I have the chance to get to the 2024 Olympics.”

Mr Pitt, Headmaster of RGS Worcester said, “After such a thrilling summer of sport, it is very exciting to see two of our students fencing for their country at the School Games which have showcased many Olympic stars in the past. They have both worked very hard at their sport and we wish them the very best of luck for this high profile tournament.”

Around 1,600 of the nation’s finest young sports stars will compete in this year’s School Games across a total of twelve current and future Olympic and Paralympic sports: Athletics, Cycling, Fencing, Gymnastics, Hockey, Judo, Rugby Sevens, Swimming, Table Tennis, Volleyball, Wheelchair Basketball and Wheelchair Tennis.

Photo: Danielle Lawson with cup