THE RECORD-BREAKING efforts of Team GB’s athletes in this summer’s Olympic Games have already made an impact in Malvern – the Observer can reveal.
Inspired by the country’s resounding success, Malvern residents have been showing interest in joining a number of the town’s thriving sports clubs.
Louise Kalogeras, chairman of Colwall and Malvern Hockey Club, said she has received many calls from potential new members following Great Britain’s memorable gold medal win in the women’s hockey less than a fortnight ago at the Rio games.
Millions watched in the late hours when Team GB’s Hollie Webb scored the winning goal in a nerve-wracking penalty shoot-out victory over the Netherlands – ensuring GB more sporting glory in what has been an unforgettable Games.
Team GB walked away with 67 medals, including 27 golds, and finished second place. The team also became the first nation to improve on their medal haul after hosting the previous Games in 2012.
Formed in 2008, Colwall and Malvern Hockey Club has between 70 and 80 members aged from 13 to 60 and has two senior teams which play in the West Club Women’s League.
Louise has already received many new enquiries from interested senior and junior players and is hoping the figure will continue to rise.
She told the Observer: “The women’s team have done wonders for the profile of the game and have become great sporting role models for young women which will hopefully inspire more women to get involved in sport generally.”
And it is just not hockey enjoying the attention with Malvern Cycle Sports and Malvern Joggers getting calls in from inspired residents.
Vicki Bristow, of Malvern Cycle Sports, said: “The Olympic success of Team GB has been phenomenal with cycling leading the way in the medals table.
“We’ve already had a number of enquiries from people wanting to find out more about the club following the Olympics, which is great.
“We have great support from local organisations helping with things such as venues for junior coaching, which aids the development of future talent.”
And more inspiration could be bouncing its way to Malvern in the coming weeks when town athlete Vicky Jenkins competes in her debut Paralympic Games.
Vicky was selected by Team GB at the start of July and will compete in the W1 compound competition and has recently set off to Rio to get her preparations underway.
She said: “I’m looking forward to experiencing my first Paralympic Games in Rio and competing at the highest level of my sport.”
The Paralympic Games start next Wednesday.
