A MARYHILL teenager is heading to Japan to represent Great Britain in gymnastics.

Talented Darci Tierney, 13, will travel with team GB on November 29 to compete in tumbling at the World Age Finals in Tokyo.

The call-up to represent her country only came about two weeks ago after first reserve Darci was asked to step in when another gymnast in her age category had to pull out of the competition.

Glasgow Times:

Her delighted dad Charlie, 50, said: “We are totally overwhelmed by it – it is brilliant.”

Darci trains with Sapphires Gymnastics Club and has been involved in the sport since she was nine years old.

The John Paul Academy pupil spends on average five days a week honing her craft – and now it appears the hard work has paid up with her Team GB selection.

Charlie said: “You have never seen such a wee committed girl in all your life. She eats and breathes gymnastics.”

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Aside from all the medals in her trophy cabinet including one bronze and two silver from an international competition in Portugal last year, Darci has taken a place of pride in the community where she has grown up.

Joiner Charlie said: “Everyone is amazed. My partner has been getting stopped in Asda, with everyone saying it’s brilliant how good she is doing.”

Glasgow Times:

That same community has helped raise more than £2,700 to help send Darci to Japan for the competition which lasts 10 days.

And her family including mum Lorraine Keoth and sister Casey, 18 are also supporting her as she prepares to compete on the world stage.

Charlie added: “Darci is a modest wee girl and we are so proud.”

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To help Darci achieve her dream in Japan, you can donate to her fundraising drive for the trip here