A COLWYN Bay sports scholar is celebrating after earning a spot on Team GB for an upcoming international tournament.

Josh Lynch, a Year 9 pupil at Rydal Penrhos, has been selected to the Great Britain squad for the European Youth Weightlifting Championships, which will take place at Lignano Sabbiadoro in Italy later this year.

The 14-year-old booked his place at the July showcase with a standout effort at the British College and University Championship, where he broke yet more of his own Welsh records and finished third in his category against a much older and more experienced field.

He has improved his overall lifting by 55kg in total this year, and Josh was deservedly chosen by selectors at a meeting last week.

This is down to the hard work he is putting in with coach and Commonwealth Games athlete Harry Misangyi, in addition to Rydal Penrhos’ specialist Strength and Conditioning programme.

Ray Williams, head coach of Weightlifting Wales, said: “The talented youngster Josh Lynch has made the qualification total to represent Great Britain at the upcoming European Youth Championships.

“Josh has made great progress over the year breaking several age group records and will benefit by competing against the top European nations.

“His commitment and positive attitude and natural power make him stand out and to be making close to 120kgs clean and Jerk at his young age indicates high hopes for future success from this young star.”

“Josh has made huge progress and always has a smile on his face, don't let the smile fool you though he has a strong determination, passion and desire to win.”

Mr Misangyi, added: “Selection for this event is a testament to Josh’s hard work and determination. He is going to have an amazing experience and I’m excited to see him compete in his biggest competition yet representing Great Britain.”