April 12, 2005

Tweddle's studied triumpt

Ian Hargraves
Daily Post

LIVERPOOL'S star gymnast Beth Tweddle demonstrated that her university studies have not affected her athletic skills by winning the individual title at the British Women's Team Championships held in Guildford over the weekend.

She finished with an individual score of 37.125 points with another Liverpool-based competitor, Melanie Roberts from North Wales, coming second to ensure the city retained the National Championship.

"Beth's studies have certainly not affected her gymnastics ability," said national coach Amanda Kirby. "She performed brilliantly, and demonstrated that she is ready for the challenges that lie ahead."

Those challenges include the European Championships in Hungary at the end of May, the World Student Games in Turkey and the World Champion-ships in Melbourne.

Many of the team members are also based at the Liverpool centre, which clearly maintains its standing as the strongest gymnastics base in Britain.

Tweddle tried out a new style on the parallel bars at the weekend. It meant she finished second in what is usually her best event, but Kirby is confident that it will eventually make her even more competitive.