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Taking it to the Max at Commonwealths
A gymnast's first ever senior competition will be one of the world's biggest athletics events.
Max Whitlock found out last week via email that he has made the England team for next month's Commonwealth Games in Delhi India.
After impressing selectors at a handful of qualifying rounds this year the former Longdean student has a chance to fulfil a lifelong dream against some of the best gymnasts from around the globe:
"I'm so happy," said the 17 year old. "I've been working towards this for a long time.
"I can't reallye xplain how I feel - I just can't wait!
"Hopefully I can bring home a team medal - gold I hope - and I'd love to get an individual gold on any piece, particularly the pommel horse."
Max, who hopes to take part in all six events in India, came third overall from the athletes being considered for their Commonwealth call-up in the final trial last weekend in Lilleshall.
He has been training full-time since leaving school last year with South Essex Gymnastics Club in Basildon.
Max, of Adeyfield Road in Hemel Hempstead, began his gymnastic career at Sapphire School of Gymnastics in Hemel before moving on aged 12.
He is currently spending almost 40 hours a week in the gym to give himself the best chance of returning clutching metal in a month's time.
"This is my first senior competition, and hopefully it will get me closer to Olympic level," he added.
"But it's just whether I do well enough in India."
To see how Max gets on keep your eye on The Gazette.
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Weather for Hemel Hempstead
Thursday 09 February 2012
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