OLYMPICS LONDON 2012: Games experience can be roaring success for Pouli

By Barrie White, Sportsbeat, London 2012

LOUISA Pouli’s Olympic odyssey will have been longer than most by the time she takes to Wembley Arena – but she’s adamant it won’t be over when London 2012 comes to a close.

The 19-year-old rhythmic gymnast’s Olympic hopes were in tatters just a few months ago when British Gymnastics ruled that the seven-strong squad had not reached the required criteria for London 2012.

But in March, tears of sorrow turned to tears of joy when Pouli and co were successful with their appeal, ensuring the squad that finished 16th at this year’s European Championships had their Olympic spot after all.

And while Great Britain are unlikely to trouble the podium places with Russia and neighbouring Eastern European countries set to dominate, Pouli believes her London 2012 appearance can still be a roaring success.

“It’s pretty hyped up and I’ve just been concentrating on training. It’s a matter of hard work and focusing on what we have to do,” said Pouli, who will make history as one of the first-ever British entrants in the team event.

“We really want to publicise our sport more because it’s not really known as much in Britain, and get the younger generation involved to keep going.

“Being the first team ever, hopefully that will make them come in, and because we train at the University of Bath, we have lots of kids coming in or open days and we see them hanging off the barriers, or coming down and asking the coach if they can join in with the session.

“It’s really amazing knowing that you did that and getting them interested in the sport. It’s going to be such a good experience seeing everyone in the Olympic Village, and in London especially, with it being our home Games.”

© Sportsbeat 2012