Lauren fastest girl in Ireland in her age group

Slemish College year 10 pupil Lauren Roy, winner of the 100 metres at the All Ireland championships, is traveling to Manchester in September to compete in the UK School games. INBT25-232AC

The 14-year-old landed the accolade of being fastest junior sprinter in Ireland, having won the title in Athlone last month.

A member of Ballymena and Antrim Athletics Club, Lauren’s talent was spotted at school and she was encouraged to join a club to nurture her obvious ability.

Earlier this year Lauren entered the Ulster Schools Competition coming first in the 100m and 2nd in the 200m sprints, allowing her to qualify for the Irish Schools Competition. Here, Lauren took first again in the 100m with a magnificent time of 12.32 seconds.

Lauren has now been selected for the Ulster schools team and she will compete in the Inter-provincials on June 19 in Bantry. Such an accolade will allow for possible selection for the full Irish Schools team.

However, it is exciting to learn that Lauren has also been approached regarding possible selection for the UK School Games in September 2015.

Lauren’s PE teacher, Denise Ross, having encouraged her in Year 8 to take her talent further, said: “It’s a huge achievement and she has such passion for running.”

Her coach Paul Strange stated: “She has a very fruitful career in front of her and I would see her excelling in athletics.”

Modest Lauren is taking all the attention in her stride, stating: “I’ve really enjoyed the competitions and hopefully I’ll get more opportunities in the future.”