HUNTINGDON gymnast Luke Folwell has reached both the zenith and the nadir of his career so far over the last 12 months – but in the next year he’s hoping it gets even better with a trip to London 2012.

HUNTINGDON gymnast Luke Folwell has reached both the zenith and the nadir of his career so far over the last 12 months – but in the next year he’s hoping it gets even better with a trip to London 2012.

The 24-year-old, who trains at Huntingdon Gym Club, returned from last October’s Commonwealth Games in Delhi with a fistful of medals, including all-around and vault gold and three silvers to boot.

That made Folwell the most successful British gymnast in Commonwealth Games history and it appeared a matter of time before he forced his way into the senior Great Britain side.

But things turned sour for Folwell, who severely injured his shoulder in his first training session after Delhi and, as a result, was forced to undergo surgery in February and miss out on April’s European Championships.

But Folwell, who is nearing full fitness again, is determined to force his way into the six-man squad for October’s World Championships – and the five-strong team for London 2012.

“India was my peak as a gymnast so far, to get those medals was a great feeling. But at my first session back, I felt my shoulder go,” said Folwell.

“I was feeling really confident after Delhi but the injury kind of stopped me in my tracks, but it won’t be long until I’m back to full fitness.

“Of course I have all the motivation I need with the British Championships coming up in September, I really want to be back competing there so I’m training hard and am ahead of schedule in my recovery.”

And, while Folwell is the first to admit that competition for places in the British squad couldn’t be much stronger, he’s adamant that even if he misses out on a place at the World Championships, all is not lost.

“The field in British gymnastics is so strong and we’re competing for a team of six places for the World Championships in October and then only five for the Olympics,” he added.

“I know how hard it’s going to be but if I can get back fighting fit then I think I’ve got as good a chance as anyone of making the team.

“Making the team for the World Championships puts you in a good position for the Olympic team but if my shoulder’s not right and I don’t get there then it’s not the end of the world. There are still test events that will give me a chance to make the team.

“Injuries or loss of form, can come into play so there’s always a chance. I can’t put my hand on my heart and say I’m definitely going.

“But at the same time of course I’m feeling positive and the chance to compete at an Olympics in my home country would be unbelievably special.”

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