GYMNASTICS: Olympic champion Rhys McClenaghan is ready to return to the pommel horse after injury

McClenaghan will compete in four World Cup finals before a big summer featuring three major events – the Commonwealth Games, European and World Championships.

We’re just two years away from the Los Angeles Olympics, which became apparent very quickly, and the world of gymnastics didn’t stop while McClenaghan was out of action.

As with every Olympics, some athletes retire or take time off, and there are always new kids looking to push the sport forward – even old faces like two-time Olympic champion Max Whitlock who has announced his return to the sport.

McClenaghan may have one Grand Slam Olympic champion, two world titles, three European titles and Commonwealth Games gold under his belt, but the Newtownards gymnast knows the biggest challenges lie ahead.

“I know there is a tough challenge ahead of me in any tournament I participate in,” McClenaghan added.

“In this sport, there’s definitely no room to rest on past results. There are these guys who come from beginners to seniors, and they’re very good on the pommel horse.

“They’re like a new generation of pommel horse operators, but I’m definitely up for the challenge. I can see paths to conquer each one of them, and I’m looking forward to figuring it out like a giant jigsaw puzzle.”

“I feel like I was very happy last year and rightfully so, but it was a struggle for a year where I was constantly getting injured.

“Thankfully I am back in the competition competing against other top level gymnasts and I am looking forward to this competition.”