Athletics: Balchin sets sights on glory at Brecon

Jul 14 2007 by Bob Cypher, South Wales Echo

KINGS Monkton School’s Sian Balchin was today hoping to build on recent successes when she represents Cardiff & Vale of Glamorgan Schools at the Welsh Schools Championships in Brecon.

Sian, 15, a member of Barry & Vale Harriers, struck gold twice in the Independent Schools Association National Athletics Championship at Alexander Stadium, Birmingham, winning the discus (25.1m) and shot (8.8m).

Others to look out for at the championships are Brett Morse, who is hoping to finish his schools career on a high with a record or two, while Peter Morgan also has his eyes on rewriting the record books.

It would be a rare occurrence if Simon Lawson were to leave Brecon without at least one medal in his kit bag, while the clash between Gemma Goulbourne and the highly-talented Caryl Granville in the sprint hurdles could be interesting.

The pair met at the recent under-20s championships in Swansea, Granville taking the honours.

But Goulbourne has been racing well this season and will want to continue her progress.

Another intriguing clash should come in the 1,500m and 3,000m with Leanne Fitzgerald renewing her rivalry with Leah Dixon.