Hannah and Ben for India

Athletics Northern Ireland, the governing body of the sport, are pleased to announce that six athletes have been selected to represent Northern Ireland in the 3rd Commonwealth Youth Games to be held in Pune, India 12-18 October, 2008. NI Commonwealth Games Council yesterday announced the full team heading to the games- a total of 19 athletes across six sports. Over the last few months, local young athletes have been striving to reach the times required for selection and should be commended for their hard work, effort and persistence. Nine athletes met the consideration standard but however only six places were available. Two North Down athletes are among the six, Hannah Lewis at 200m and long jump and Ben Reynolds at high jump and 110m hurdles.

Along with Coach/Manager  Jackie McKernan, the following athletes will travel to India:

Ciara Mageean 800m &1500m
Gaby McNally Hammer
Curtis Woods 200m & 400m
Hannah Lewis 200m & Long Jump
Ben Reynolds High Jump & 110m Hurdles
Edward Mourbey Pole Vault

The III Commonwealth Youth Games will be held in Pune, India 2008.It is for the first time in history that Commonwealth Youth Games are being held in Asia, in India. The city of Pune, the cultural capital of Maharashtra and a fast growing Metropolis, will host the 3rd Commonwealth Youth Games between 12 – 18 October in 2008 with the for 9 disciplines; Athletics, Badminton, Boxing, Shooting, Swimming, Table Tennis, Tennis, Weightlifting and Wrestling.

Over 1,300 athletes and 350 Officials from 71 countries will participate in the games. It is for the first time that this multi-sporting event is going to be held at a single venue – the Shri Shiv Chhatrapati Sports Complex, Pune.

Our congratulations go to the six athletes selected and to all nine athletes who worked so hard this season to pass the consideration standard.