Olympic Gold for Rhys

Students, staff and the wider SERC community, were delighted to witness Rhys McClenaghan BEM realise his ambitions and lift an Olympic gold medal on Saturday 2 August in Paris, for his superb pommel horse performance, with a score of 15.533.

It seems only yesterday that Rhys took time out of his training schedule to call in to SERC’s Bangor Campus to catch up with the lecturing team, and film an interview to encourage the next generation into sport. That was actually in 2020. Since recording the inspirational short film, the young man has now completed what is considered a gymnastics’ grand slam - lifting World, European, Commonwealth and now Olympic golds.

Rhys, from Newtownards, who successfully completed the BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma in Sport at the College’s Bangor Campus in 2018, has continually provided inspiration for both students and staff.

Colin Atkinson, Deputy Head of School, Applied Science and Sport at SERC said, “We are thrilled for Rhys and congratulate him on his gold Olympic medal.   His performance was spectacular - the culmination of years of hard work, dedication and commitment – and a joy to watch.” He added, “Rhys was a dedicated student at SERC, and we were delighted to have the opportunity to support him in his studies whilst he pursued his position as an elite athlete. He is a fantastic ambassador for sport and all young people, and we cannot wait to welcome him back to Newtownards and to help celebrate his Olympic gold. His positivity, determination and focus are truly inspirational.”

And if you happened to miss his amazing performance: Rhys McClenaghan: 'Emotions through the roof' as Olympics gold medallist makes history in Paris - BBC Sport