A TALENTED young sailor has been given “Elite Athlete” status from Sport Wales enabling him to continue his training amid coronavirus restrictions.

Llion Morris, a Year 10 pupil at Rydal Penrhos School in Colwyn Bay, was recently given ‘Elite Athlete’ status by the national governing body, which has been crucial for the aspiring star ahead of some big challenges in the coming months on the national stage.

This has allowed Llion, who is also a member of Llandudno Sailing Club, to continue training despite increasing measures being implemented by the Welsh Government, with the country currently in the middle of a ‘fire-break’ lockdown to prevent a further rise in COVID-19 cases.

It also permits the pupil to compete at events across the country, with Llion aiming to secure qualification to the European and World Championships as the year progresses.

Llion is a highly decorated sailor who has developed his skills significantly in recent years. This has resulted in some outstanding regional and national competition successes and selection to a number of RYA Cymru Wales squads.

His exceptional progression on the water brought another outstanding distinction for Llion, who was upgraded from the ITCA GBR National Topper Squad to the RYA UK Junior Squad for their winter training.

Rydal Penrhos has a rich history of sailing success, with the provision recently celebrating its 60th anniversary and the programme secured accreditation from the Royal Yachting Association.