British girl lands trampoline medal surprise

EMMA Smith is flying high after landing a bronze medal at the Trampoline World Cup competition in Spain. The Widnes 18-year-old was the highest-achieving European girl at the event and exceeded all pre-competition expectations by claiming a podium position. She told the Runcorn & Widnes Weekly News: “I didn’t expect to get a medal. I just turned up and wanted to stay on the trampoline. It feels pretty amazing considering I finished behind two Chinese girls who are the best in the world.

It was the biggest competition Emma has competed in as an open-age trampolinist after representing Great Britain at both junior and senior level for three years. Emma finished her A-levels in the summer and starts a three-year course at Liverpool Hope University this year, studying Sports Psychology.The rising star was joined by two other Great Britain athletes, and saw off competition from more than 30 rivals throughout the world.The teenager will compete at another World Cup event in Germany in October before travelling to France for the Worlds in November, and is looking to build on her success with further final appearances. Next year, Emma will be hoping to compete in trials for the Great Britain 2012 London Olympics squad.