A BIRKENHEAD gymnast has been named British Champion following a stellar performance at the Trampoline, Tumbling & DMT British Championships this weekend at the Utilita Arena in Birmingham.

The event, which saw 300 elite-level tumblers and trampolinists compete across the three disciplines, was a stunning showcase of British gymnastics talent. 

Double Mini Trampoline (DMT) sensation Megan Sprakes, 17, clinched the women’s gold with a final score of 24, ahead of Ruth Shevlan and fellow Birkenhead gymnast Bethany Willamson.

Having won gold at the British Championships Megan now has her sights set on the Trampoline World Championships in November.

The full line-up of British athletes who have been selected to represent their country and take part in the World’s will be announced next week.

If selected, Megan will be among the 100 gymnasts from over 50 countries battling it out for the title of World Champion and securing one of the highly sought-after places at the Paris 2024 Games.

Also taking place at the Utilita Arena in Birmingham, British gymnasts will have the chance to compete at World’s in front of a home crowd for the first time in 12 years. 

Megan said: “Being crowned British Champion is amazing. It’s the best feeling I’ve ever had to be honest. I’m speechless.”

“I'm so grateful for all the support from all the other DMT gymnasts and my teammate Bethany Williamson. Beth is a big inspiration to us all at the club and I’ve always looked up and aspired to be like her, so to compete on the floor with her is incredible and it’s been great to have her there with me throughout the competition.”

In total, Birkenhead Trampoline Club took eight gymnasts and two coaches down to Birmingham for the British Championship.

Head coach, Sarah Madge, said:  For 17-years-old Megan really held her nerve.

"She stepped up to the runway and attacked her last pass. She performed beautifully and as we were walking away, we knew she had won a medal, but we didn’t know which one. 

"We had two senior ladies on the podium which is a first and a fantastic achievement. 

"We had such a fantastic time and not just for all the medals and achievements. The whole team of athletes, Parents , coaches and supporters really came together to support us and it was so lovely to be part of it.

"I’m so proud of all the athletes and their achievements and thank them all for letting me be part of their journeys in this sport."

If you would like to join Birkenhead Trampolice Club please email sarahbtc@outlook.com