Commonwealth medallist and Team GB Olympian, Antony James joined pupils from Reception – Year 9 at Truro High School for sponsored workout and fitness circuits aimed to inspire them to get active and feel passionate about achieving their goals.
Antony, whose honours competing in the 100m butterfly and medley relay include Commonwealth Games silver and bronze medals, also headed to the pool for a special intensive training session with some of the school’s most promising swimmers.
Offering the girls lots of expert tips and advice, he reminded them that success in the pool comes from hard work and perseverance whether the rewards are cutting a second off a personal best or competing on an international stage.
The Plymouth-born swimmer has competed at all four of the major international and European Games and specialises in the 100m butterfly. He represented GB at the 2012 Olympic Games in London going up against the most successful Olympian of all time, American Michael Phelps.
He said: “All the girls have been so enthusiastic to get stuck in this morning and I’m so impressed by the level of motivation amongst these young athletes even when the going gets tough. There are clearly some really talented sportswomen here so I’m definitely planning to come back soon to build on what we’ve done today.”
The visit was organised by Sports for Schools who work with a number of top athletes to inspire youngsters to get more involved in physical activities and to have the confidence to follow their dreams. Antony was joined by Sports for Schools “sportivater” Teresa Robinson.
Money raised by the sponsored workout will be used by Sport for Schools to rehabilitate top athletes who are recovering from injuries as well as to provide additional sports equipment for our own girls. All those who took part had the chance to earn commemorative wristbands and Olympic memorabilia.
