Hart Youngsters’ Golden Day

IN their first ever appearance in the Hampshire Youth Games badminton tournament Hart youngsters all took away medals from Farnborough Recreation Centre on Saturday.

The team from years 7 and 8 (ages 12-14) not only reached the final against Portsmouth but won 3-2 to clinch the gold medals.

The team, chosen after trials at Hart Leisure Centre, was Gina Rapacioli, Amelia Carter, Tom  Hume and Harrison Farthing. All had been coached at the centre.

The younger players, aged 10-12, finished third and gained bronze medals. Their team comprised Melissa Jasper, Sarah Todd, Andrew Grant, Mark Walter, Will lynch and Cameron Hume.

Leisure Development Officer, Kevin Wallace said; “It was great to see Hart represented at these games and doing so well. Our special thanks must go to badminton coach Linda Rapacioli ad her family for all the hard work and effort they put into selecting the players, training them and looking after them on the day.”

Cllr Sara Kinnell, Hart’s Cabinet Member for Leisure and Recreation, commented: “I am thrilled. It reflects both the first class coaching at the centre and the wonderful talent in the teams.”