Dow sisters selected for women's rugby sevens side at Sainsbury's Games

Sisters from Maidenhead have been selected to compete at next month’s Sainsbury’s School Games.

Ruth and Abigail Dow have been chosen for the England South West Women’s rugby sevens side, and are two of 1,600 elite young athletes who compete in 12 different sports at the youth games in Manchester from September 4-7. Ruth was selected for the squad last year, but it will be a new experience for Abigail who said she feels privileged to be taking part.

The games are supported by the National Lottery, and have also received funding from Sport England. It will be delivered by the Youth Sports Trust.

Ruth said: “I am very excited with high expectations after competing last year and coming second in the Sainsbury’s School Games. The quality of the rugby played was such a high standard, which has encouraged me even more.

“I am looking forward to the opening and closing ceremonies as they were spectacular last year.”

Abigail added: “I feel privileged that I have been selected and I am excited to be a part of the South West region and following in my sister’s footsteps.”

“I am excited to experience the high level of competition and make my team, coaches and parents proud.”

Several athletes have gone on to achieve major sporting success having competed at the school games.

In 2008 heptathlete Katarina Johnson-Thompson bagged a gold medal with a record 1.78m leap in the girls’ high jump.

Paralympic swimming gold medallist Ellie Simmonds also took two golds and two silvers in the pool in 2006.

Tara Hewitt, head of sponsorship at Sainsbury’s, said: “I can’t wait to watch some of the country’s greatest sporting prospects compete in some of the country’s most iconic and well-known sporting venues. We’re committed to enabling and inspiring young people to lead healthier, more active lifestyles. 

“Our support of the Sainsbury’s School Games is part of that commitment, whether it’s a sports day eg-g-and-spoon race or a 100 metre sprint in less than 10 seconds.”

John Steele, chief executive of the Youth Sport Trust, said: “The 1,600 athletes that will travel to the Sainsbury’s 2014 School Games in Manchester are set to gain a valuable insight into what competing at a major multi sport event is really like. Importantly, they will gain some invaluable experiences that will help in their future sporting careers.”

For more on the Sainsbury’s 2014 Scho-ol Games visit www.2014schoolgames.com