CELEBRATING 8 GREATER MANCHESTER OLYMPIANS!
With the start of the Olympic Games, we’re highlighting eight athletes hailing from Greater Manchester who are set to captivate the world stage in Paris this summer.
From first timers to seasoned pros, these sensational sports men and women represent not only their community known for its rich sporting heritage, but also the aspirations of the country.
Georgia Taylor-Brown – Triathlon
With both parents having competed in their prime, it may be said that triathlon runs in the blood of Manchester-born Olympian Georgia Taylor-Brown.
Even after injury and a bike malfunction at the Tokyo 2020 Games, Georgia won individual silver at her Olympic debut. Shortly after this, she helped Team GB clinch the gold medal in the mixed relay team.
We can’t wait to watch Georgia perform in the exciting multi-sport soon!
View this post on Instagram
Charlotte Worthington – Cycling BMX Freestyle
Not only is Charlotte Worthington a proud Mancunian, she was also the first woman to land a 360-degree backflip at Tokyo 2020, where she claimed gold in the BMX freestyle. After a break from competition, Charlotte is bringing her fierce reputation back to the Olympics this year.
Charlotte said the following about her North West roots:
“I am so proud to be from Manchester. It’s the city that raised me and made me who I am. I’m so grateful for the fantastic community and their kindness in bringing me up”.
Good luck Charlotte!
View this post on Instagram
Patrick Brown – Boxing
He may have a cheeky smile, but 24 Patrick Brown is a formidable force in the ring. The Sale born ‘Jack of all Trades’ (having played football and rugby before boxing) joined Moss Side Fire Station Boxing club in 202. This will be his first Olympic Games.
Patrick said the following about the city that raised him:
“I’m a born and bred Manc who loves Manchester United! And I love the people of Manchester as they always get behind the fighters. It’s a special city”.
Go get ‘em, Patrick!
View this post on Instagram
Anthony Harding – Diving
Ashton-under-Lyne born Anthony Harding will debut at the Men’s Diving in Paris. This proud moment follows a determined journey to the world stage, which involved a balancing act between his training schedule and studies.
The 24 year old will now join forces in the synchro with Jack Laugher, who took gold with Chris Mears in Rio 2016.
Good luck Anthony!
View this post on Instagram
Aimee Pratt – Athletics
Aimee Pratt’s athletics journey was inspired by the legacy of a Manchester born former middle distance champion, when the Diane Modahl Sports Foundation visited her school.
She quickly climbed the age-group ranks, and made her 3000m steeplechase debut at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics.
The Sale Harrier club member will compete in the same event in Paris; her community and country are so proud of her.
View this post on Instagram
James Guy – Swimming
Bury-born James Guy had an emotional reaction after bagging gold as part of the ‘Fantastic Four’ 4x200m freestyle relay at Tokyo 2020. With two gold and three silver medals to his name, Paris 2024 will be Guy’s third Olympic Games. The 28 year old appears to be in great shape and raring to go.
View this post on Instagram
Hannah Kelly – Athletics
It’s been a breakthrough year for Bolton United Harriers Hannah Kelly, after various international successes earnt her a precious place on the GB 4x400m relay team.
The 23 year old sprinter’s dreams came true when she was selected for the squad, and she is excited for her debut on the world stage. She also spoke about her North West background, stating the following:
“I am so proud of my Greater Manchester roots and always grateful for the support from this amazing community!”
View this post on Instagram
Keely Hodgkinson – Athletics
Last but certainly not least, British record holder and pride of Wigan Keely Hodgkinson will toe the start line of the 800m in Paris.
Keely boasts an astonishing career aged just 22, and will certainly draw a huge audience as she returns for her second Olympics with her eyes on the (very golden) prize.
Good luck Keely!
View this post on Instagram
We can’t wait to root for our local athletes and wider GB team soon. Let the Games begin!