Rio 2016: Pole vaulter Holly Bradshaw delighted at making Olympics GB athletics squad
By Mark Ashenden
Last Updated: 24/03/17 11:56am
Sky Academy Sports Scholar Holly Bradshaw has revealed her emotions after being confirmed as a member of the 80-strong British squad for the Rio Olympics.
Team GB unveiled the squad on Wednesday following a weekend of competition around the country and at the European Championships in Amsterdam.
Several athletes were desperately trying to make last-gasp attempts to achieve the qualifying standard and stake their claim, but the only concerns for pole vaulter Bradshaw since becoming British champion has been fitness.
The 24-year-old from Preston has struggled with injuries over the last two years and opted against competing in the Netherlands to continue her Rio preparation in Cardiff.
But with the Olympics just three weeks away, Britain's athletes were finally unveiled.
Bradshaw, who finished sixth in the final at London 2012, said: "To be selected for my second Olympics is such an honour and I am so excited.
"What kept me going through my injuries was the thought of me making my second Games and to finally being going is a dream.
"I have worked so hard and rounded into great shape over the past month and my jumping technique has come on leaps and bounds since I stared my season in Birmingham.
"I just need a bit of luck with the weather in my next few competitions and hopefully I can do myself justice."
Olympic Champions Jess Ennis-Hill, Mo Farah and Greg Rutherford will seek to retain their Olympic crowns in Brazil having triumphed at London 2012, with Mo Farah also defending his 5,000m title.
London 2012 medallists Christine Ohuruogu, who also won Olympic gold at Beijing 2008, and Robbie Grabbarz also return and will again compete in the 400m and high jump respectively, while Jo Pavey will compete in her fifth Games in the 10,000m.
WHAT'S COMING UP FOR OUR SCHOLARS
July 13: Mark English - Liege, Belgium
July 15-17: Lucy Garner - Bene Ladies Tour
JULY 22-23: Mark English, Olivia Breen and Holly Bradshaw - Anniversary Games, London
