Fifteen-year-old Gemma Johnson has returned home with a medal in hand after an impressive performance at the World Junior Tae kwon do Championships in Crete.

Gemma, from Lordshill, earned herself a bronze after her battling display through the first three rounds awarded her with a place in the 3rd/4th-place play-off.

Out of 4000 competitors, the result is even more impressive considering Gemma was competing in the under-17 category-with girls up to two years older than her. This leaves the prospects for next year looking very good for the British Champion, as many of her fellow competitors will have moved up into the next age group.

Hopes are high for another of the British Champions, Gareth Brown, after receiving an invitation to train at the British Olympic Training Centre.

The senior men's under-72kg champion will use the time at the centre in Lofer, Austria for high altitude training and to obtain specialist instruction and advice.

Both individuals will hope to continue their good fortunes as thoughts turn to the Olympics in 2004. The two years should provide enough time for the two Brits to build on the successes of 2002 and go to Athens confident of getting results.