A PONTYPOOL girl has triumphed at the Welsh Athletics Champions in Cardiff taking first place in the long jump. Macey Jones, 11, of St Cadocs, Penygarn saw off competition from across Wales, over the three day championship, beating 17 girls to win her gold medal.

Macey jumped four metres 33 despite having had a bad foot on the day.

Although thrilled to have won, Macey was slightly disappointed she did not beat her personal best of four metres 46 but is looking forward to trying again in other competitions throughout the year.

Macey who attends Abersychan School originally took up running about a year ago before discovering the long jump, which has now became her main passion.

She said: "I was told I was good at sport by one of my primary school teachers and now it feels great to be Welsh Champion.

"It was a big opportunity for me to compete against the whole of Wales.

"I was introduced to the long jump by a friend and now it has become my main activity."

Macey is coached by Ken Murphy and trains four hours a week for the long jump and a further two hours for her running at Cwmbran Stadium. She is also a member of Cwmbran Harriers.

She said: "My mum tries to make sure I eat lots of protein and carbohydrates and I'm always in bed by 9pm.

"I'm hoping to train to become an Olympic athlete.

"I can't wait to tell all my friends I'm Welsh Champion."

Macey's mum Alisa said: "She has been number one all year so the pressure was on, but she performed well really well."

Macey has a cabinet full of medals including Regional Champions, Celtic Cup, Cardiff Archers and Grand Prix.

She has also received a cheque for £100 from the Mayor of Torfaen because of her hard work and commitment.