Commonwealth Games: Rhys McClenaghan pleased Glasgow will host

McClenaghan won his first European gold medal in the pommel horse in the Hydro in Glasgow in 2018 and believes the city has the infrastructure to host gymnastics events, if it is one of the 10 sports included.

“My first European title was in Glasgow in the Hydro and I have amazing memories there, when I think of Glasgow I think of gymnastics, and I couldn’t think of a better place for the games to be.”

The 25-year-old also admitted that among the numerous benefits to his career that the Commonwealth Games has provided, getting to represent Northern Ireland is one of the highlights.

“For me, the Commonwealth Games was a real sling shot for my career, it was my first ever major championship win and it really gave me the confidence moving forward to take further titles,” explained McClenaghan.

“For people looking to qualify for the Olympic Games it is a great halfway mark between the last Olympics and the next one.

“It is the only competition I get to represent Northern Ireland so it’s an important one.”