Rower heads to Rio after selection
GB Rower Jonathan ‘Jonny’ Walton from Kirby Muxloe has officially been selected for Team GB to compete at the Rio 2016 Olympic Games in August.
Jonny has represented the GB Rowing Team at junior and Under-23 level and has firmly established himself in the men’s sculling squad during this Olympiad and raced with John Collins in the men’s double during the past two seasons.
Jonny has been supported by Leicester-Shire & Rutland Sport’s (LRS) GO GOLD Funding Programme for a number of years (2007-2013).
He said: “It’s been a tough four years with lots of ups and downs and selection to compete at the pinnacle of my sport at the Olympics means so much to me.
“Full focus can now be set on getting our best performance at the games. I can’t wait to get out to Rio to race for Team GB. Never is rowing in the centre of the city, so these Olympics are going to be special, rowing on the Lagoa below Christ the Redeemer is going to be amazing!
“The support LRS’ GO GOLD Funding Programme gave to me was invaluable in my development as an athlete giving me access to things to help me train race and perform and may not have been able to afford.”
In 2016, 109 athletes from 25 different sports were successful in receiving grants ranging from £100-£1,000, as part of LRS’ 2016 GO GOLD Funding Programme - Podium Level.