Garth retains Celtic Games javelin title

From the Western Telegraph, first published Wednesday 18th Aug 2004.

WHITLAND secondary schoolboy javelin thrower Garth Loughran has just won a gold medal at the U16s Celtic Games, held at Grangemount Stadium, Scotland.

The highly talented 15-year-old threw a tremendous 56.83 metres, to retain the title which he won in Ireland last year.

Last month, Garth represented Wales in the annual British schoolboy championships, in Chelmsford, and was delighted when he picked up a bronze medal.

His parents, dad Tracy, and mum Carol, who live at Llanddewi Velfrey, Narberth, are obviously very proud of their son's tremendous athletic achievements.

Garth's elder brother Stuart who was also a former international javelin thrower, now assists his kid brother with all his valuable knowledge in this very difficult technical throwing event.

Garth's main coach is the vastly experienced Eric Paton from Carmarthen Harriers athletic club, who he regularly turns out for.

For his age, Garth, is currently ranked number one javelin thrower in Britain, and his best ever throw in competition is a staggering 59.38 metres.

At the weekend, Garth competed in Birmingham, in the U17s UK AAAs, where he was ranked sixth, but he threw brilliantly and picked up a bronze medal with a throw of 56.90m. What made his achievement all the more special was the fact that his own javelin got damaged and he had to throw with a borrowed one.

A new javelin will cost in the region of £300 to £400 and Garth is desperately looking for sponsorship and anyone interested is asked to telephone 01834 860717.

With the Olympics in full flow in Athens, who knows, possibly in four year's time Garth may be lucky enough to compete with the very best in the world, funnier things have happened. Telegraph Sport wishes Garth all the very best for what looks to be a very bright future .

Archive Home