A TEENAGER has been selected to represent Great Britain at the European Twirling Championships.

Georgia Stephan, 17, already a one-time World Champion twirler and three-time European Champion will compete in the Sleuyter Arena, Oostende in Belgium next Easter.

Georgia, who is currently studying for a BTEC in Sport at Palmer’s College, Grays, recently won gold in the Super X Strut twirling category, making her national champion.

The delighted teen told how there is a bit more to twirling than people think...

She said: “Most of my friends think they could twirl, but it’s much harder than they think! “Twirling involves a mixture of simultaneous twirling, dance and gymnastics.

“I don’t have much of a social life these days, but I don’t mind as the feeling you get when you win makes it all worth it.

“My ultimate goal is to be world champion and set up my own baton twirling team.”

Twirling combines gymnastics and dance that requires great agility and co-ordination.

It involves a baton which is spun and twirled to accompany the routine, which is performed to music.

Georgia of Pattiswick Square, Basildon, has been twirling since she was just three years old and trains for 15 hours per week in Basingstoke, Hampshire with the Oasis Baton Training Team, winners of the Best Dance Corp and Best Turned Out Corp at last year’s national finals.

Georgia’s best friend is also a twirler with the Oasis Baton Training Team who goes to Palmers.

Mark Vinall, principal at Palmer’s College said: “Georgia’s talent and commitment is incredibly impressive and we wish her well as she takes on the responsibility of representing her country.”