Welsh gymnast, Holly Jones, believes she is physically and mentally stronger, heading into her second Commonwealth Games, stating that she is more prepared for this year’s games in Birmingham.
Jones, who is studying sports science at Swansea University, is currently preparing to represent Wales in her second Commonwealth Games, after narrowly missing out on a podium finish in 2018.
The Swansea-based gymnast travelled to the Australia games not knowing what to expect, but states, “it was one of the best experiences of my life”.
“I just loved every bit about the games, it was such a surreal feeling competing at such a big event and seeing famous athletes in the village.
“It was definitely the biggest competition I’ve done and after working so hard to get there, it was one of the best feelings knowing that all my hard work paid off.”
Four years on, 20-year-old, Jones, is relishing the prospect of competing in the UK.
“In Australia, only my coaches and parents went out to watch me compete, so in these games, it’ll be nice for my family and friends to come and support me!”
Almost four years older than she was when she made the trip Down Under, Jones is feeling stronger, both in body and in mind.
“I think physically I’ve definitely improved in my gymnastics, but I’d say especially mentally I’m a lot stronger than I was.
“Last games, I was only 17 and just turned a senior, so I didn’t have a lot of international experience. I went into those games just to enjoy and take in the experience.
“I know I will definitely be carrying that experience with me now.”
Jones has said that she was inspired by the Welsh team that won bronze in the 2014 games in Glasgow, believing if they can do it, so can she.
Speaking on her team in Swansea, she praised the support and facilities on offer to her, stating, “they’ve given me a great support system and have backed me 100%”.
The Welsh gymnast will be full of confidence heading in 2022 after recently regaining her British vault title and picking up a silver medal at the Northern Europeans in November.
Fans of the sport will be excited to watch Holly compete in Birmingham later this year, and with her expressing a desire to pursue gymnastics, the sport that she loves, for years to come, a podium finish would certainly be the cherry on the top of a great start to her career.
Ben Evans Portfolio 