Pupil to train with elite

The nine-year-old pupil at Belmont Grosvenor School in Harrogate represented Yorkshire at the National Finals of the Men’s Artistic Club Level 1 contest in Birmingham.

The schoolboy, who trains for 15-hours per week at the Leeds Gymnastics Club in Seacroft, was placed 10th in the competition – guaranteeing him a training place at the home of the British Gymnastics Association.

Robert will spend four days at the Lilleshall National Sports and Conferencing Centre in Newport, Shropshire – one of the UK’s centres of excellence for sportsmen and women.

“I am really excited about going to Lilleshall,” said Robert.

“I’m the youngest person from my gym to be going, and I’m looking forward to learning lots of new things.

“Lilleshall is the place where all the big names in gymnastics train – I’m going to learn new skills, meet new friends and meet other coaches. I can’t wait.”

During the Birmingham competition, Robert competed over the six gymnastics apparatus – floor, pommel, still rings, vault, parallel bars and high bars.

Robert started gymnastics when he was just four years old and trains in Leeds alongside GB squad heroes Ashley Watson and Nile Wilson.

And Robert has dreams of becoming a member of Team GB himself.