A 17-year-old girl from Carlton has established herself as one of the top young bowlers in this continent by winning five medals at the European Under 19 Championships in Denmark over the weekend.

 

Keira Reay became involved in the sport nearly ten years ago when she spent time at Barnsley Bowl every day after school as her mother worked there. She has since won titles at regional, national and international level and achieved a 300-point 'perfect game' 13 times.

 

But her career highlight so far was the recent trip to Denmark in which she retained her 'all events' gold which added together her performances from the singles, doubles and team events in which she took two silvers and a bronze. Keira then reached the final of the 'masters' tournament but was beaten by her German opponent.

 

"I would give myself nine out of ten for my performance over the whole competition," said Keira.

 

"I got two golds last time but I ran out of steam. This time I bowled well all the way through and I am more pleased. It's definitely a week I will never forget no matter what I achieve in my adult career."

 

Keira's ultimate aim is to represent her country at senior level and make a living out of her sport. This summer she will take her A levels at Barnsley College and already has offers from five universities to study sports psychology.

 

But she is also considering entering the professional European Bowls League and beginning an apprenticeship as a gym instructor. She will hope to finish what has been a superb junior career by winning the World Under 19 Championship in Hong Kong later this year.