University News Last updated 21 July
Two members of the Birmingham City University (BCU) community are set to compete in the men’s artistic gymnastics at this year’s Commonwealth Games in Glasgow.
Jacob Edwards, a BCU Sports Journalism graduate has been selected for Team Wales, whilst Josh Nathan, currently on a study break from his BA Architecture course, will be competing for Team England.
Josh is making his Commonwealth Games debut, meanwhile Jacob is returning to the Games for the second time after competing at Birmingham 2022.
“I’m incredibly proud and excited to have been selected to represent Wales at my second Commonwealth Games,” said Jacob. “The support I’ve received through the BCU Sport Scholarship scheme has played a huge role in helping me get to this point.
“I’m incredibly thankful to the team at BCU for believing in me and supporting my journey.”
The BCU Sport Scholarship scheme provides continued access to sport performance support post-graduation to scholars who have international medal potential.
The two athletes have previously competed together as part of the City of Birmingham gymnastics team, but this competition will see them go head-to-head.
Jacob welcomes this friendly competition, saying “It’ll be fun to share the Games experience with my old City of Birmingham and BCU teammate Josh Nathan, even if we’ll be on opposite sides this time.”
Phil Llewellyn, Director of Sport at BCU, said, “It is always a wonderfully proud moment when we get to see a BCU graduate being so successful.
“Jacob and Josh’s Commonwealth Games selections are testament to their hard work, dedication, and resilience.
“The BCU Sport Scholarship Scheme is designed to provide world-class support to high-performing student athletes and Jacob progressing from our programme to an international competition of such high prestige is a proud moment.”
Josh and Jacob will compete at the Glasgow International Arena in the artistic gymnastics competition taking place between 24 and 28 July.