Wycombe High School student, Lara Thornton, 13, is celebrating this week as she qualified in Women’s Artistic Gymnastics for the British Championships.

Thornton, who trains at Phoenix Gymnastics Club, competed in the 2017 Challenge Cup held at Surrey Sports Park, Guildford against 75 other gymnasts from across the country. 

“I’m incredibly proud of Lara and what she has achieved,” said coach Becky Birkett, director of coaching and head of Women’s Artistic at Phoenix. 

“She has worked so hard in the run up and then rose to the occasion and performed beautifully.”

“I still can’t believe I did it.” Lara added

The championships will be held back in Guildford in December and then Lara will go on as a Junior to compete at the Liverpool Echo in March.

“Lara’s success this weekend has given the gymnasts and our loyal supporters such a boost.” said Lynn Bushell, centre director. 

“The building we are in is not fit for purpose and yet the coaches and gymnasts continue to achieve great things. Imagine what we could do with a new gym.”