Coach calls Amy Tinkler an 'inspiration' despite medal disappointment

The 16-year-old is the youngest member of Team GB to go to Rio and coach says she has a bright future ahead of her.

Published 9th Aug 2016

The coach of County Durham gymnast Amy Tinkler says her sporting journey has only just begun, after she missed out on a medal at Rio last night.

The 16-year-old joined Ruby Harold, sisters Elissa and Rebecca Downie and Claudia Fragapane in the Womens Team Final.

Mistakes unfortunately cost the team - missing a medal by just over one-and-a-half points, finishing with a score of 174.362.

American gymnasts Lauren Hernandez, Alexandra Raisman, Gabrielle Douglas, Simone Biles and Madison Kocian, took gold with a score of 184.897, with Russia taking silver and China bronze.

At her home club of South Durham Gymnastics, Amy's coaches and friends gathered in their dozens to watch her in action.

13-year-old Francesca Ryman said she was inspired by Amy.

She said: "It just makes you feel so proud and to think that could be you one day.

"She was just a young child who had a dream and showed the world how good she is, and that could be like her."

Coach Kelly Milnes said this was just the start of her journey.

She said: "Come 2020 she'll still only be 20 so she's got a lot of years ahead of her yet.

"I'm sure she'll back in the gym very soon giving herself the best opportunity for the next Olympics."

Amy will be welcomed back to the club with a party. before training for the Commonwealth and World Championships.