Olympic fever burns for Amy

Ahead of the London 2012 Games, Amy (18) and a squad of young Olympic Advocates, who are part of Sport Northern Ireland’s Activ8 Young Leaders programme, have developed a range of leadership skills through sport.

In return for her hard work and dedication, Amy is being given her moment to shine after she was nominated to carry the iconic Olympic flame. She will carry the Olympic Torch through Ballymena on Thursday June 7.

Amy is a Sports Captain at Laurelhill College in Lisburn, where she has a big role in helping to deliver after-school activities and guide junior pupils who are interested in sport. Outside school, she plays for Laganside Netball Club and also attends a cross-community youth club.

Speaking about being selected as a Torchbearer, Amy commented: “I am honoured to have taken part in Sport Northern Ireland’s Activ8 programme and I am delighted to have been selected as a Torchbearer. It is an amazing opportunity for me and it is something I will remember forever.”

Chair of Sport Northern Ireland, Dominic Walsh, commented: “Sport Northern Ireland is delighted to see these inspirational young women being given such a unique opportunity. This is an excellent reward for their hard work and enthusiasm as part of Sport Northern Ireland’s Activ8 Young Leaders Programme.”

The Olympic Torch relay started at Land’s End on May 19 and will make the final leg of its journey to the Olympic Stadium on July 27.