EMILY Hutchinson goes into her fifth and final appearance at the English Schools’ Track & Field Championships wondering whether she can continue her amazing record in the event.
Since making her debut as a top age junior girl in 2011, the 18-year-old Devizes School shot putt thrower has finished sixth, fifth, fourth and then finally third last year.
“I am not superstitious but that is a weird one,” agreed Hutchinson. “It has been a nice run and we will have to see what happens on my final appearance. It would be nice to make the podium but I know there will be strong competition.
“But I will be doing my best not just for myself but also the team I trying to win points for the county competition.”
Wiltshire athletes for the 2015 English Schools Championship are, back (l-r): Louie Torto, Marcin Olech, Jake Nickerson, Ulas Akkus, Tom Gale, Gam Dumbutshena, Emily Hutchinson, Ellie-J Webb, Zoe-Ann Bishop Hayden Bailey; middle: Will Kennedy, Zoe Mattacks, Joe Collins, Sam Roberts, Callum MacTaggart, Callum Short; front: Abby Miles, Maksym Oberemok, Nick Rusinov, Will Stockley, Rory Howorth, Caitlin Wosika, Gemma Shepherd. Not in photo: Polly Maton, Zoe Wassell
Hutchinson’s vast experience and seniority has been reflected with her selection by the county management as one of the team captains along with 1500m runner Gemma Shepherd, from Sheldon School, and sprinter Will Kennedy.
Having gone through the stress and pressures of competing in one of the most demanding events on the calendar for young athletes Hutchinson knows what to expect.
“The English Schools’ is a really nerve-wracking experience so it will be nice to help others,” she added.
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