AISLING Williams is bracing herself for an “intense” 2008 as she chases her ultimate goal – success at this year’s Olympic Games in Beijing, writes Alec Doyle.
Despite being only 17, the Neston gymnast is now regarded as a senior member of Great Britain’s women’s team as she has competed at world-class level for the past two years.
But Aisling’s ticket to Beijing is not guaranteed and she must perform well at the British Championships in May and the British Team Championships in June, both of which are Olympic qualifiers for individuals.
Aisling, who also has the European Championships to look forward to in April, said: “Training will be intense. There is less time this year in between competitions because everything has been moved up to make sure our team selections are submitted in time for the Olympic deadline.
“So it is going to be hectic but I just want to compete as much as possible.”
Aisling has suffered her fair share of injury problems during her career so she is desperate to stay fully fit in 2008 as she builds towards the Olympics in August.
The former Neston High pupil said: “I obviously want to avoid injury. I had a bad run a couple of years ago so hopefully that won’t be an issue, but I want to compete in all three major events to make sure the new aspects of my routine are perfect in case I am selected.”
Aisling does not take her selection for granted. Injury permitting, her Liverpool Gymnastics Club team-mate Beth Tweddle is certain to be chosen but the other five berths in the women’s team are up for grabs.
“I really hope I am chosen,” said Aisling. “I have been to big championships before so hopefully that experience will count when I go into the trials.
“It is strange, an Olympic year. At the moment nothing is really different but as it gets closer it is a big thing to focus on.”
Aisling has already had a glimpse of what she can expect should she secure her Olympic qualification. She recently travelled to Hong Kong and Beijing with the British team for a test event.
“The stadium where the gymnastics will take place is really impressive,” said the teenager. “We were all amazed when we went inside. It was stunning and the atmosphere even then was electric.
“I just really hope I get to go back and sample the atmosphere in China again this summer at the Olympics.”
