Team GB shooter Lucy Hall relishing Olympic debut

Malton shooter Lucy Hall revelled in her first experience of the Olympic Games.

The 20-year-old narrowly missed out on the final of the women’s trap competition, finishing 14th in qualification. 

Hall still relished every moment of her debut having dreamt about reaching the Olympics since the age of 11.

“Where do I even start - the experience is just amazing, being part of an Olympic Games,” said Hall.

“It’s everything I dreamed of and more. My performance, I’m really happy with how it’s gone. 

“Our sport is about moments, I just didn’t necessarily focus on what I needed to do for targets. But you learn, you come back, you dig deep and that’s what I’ve done today.”

Hall hoped to emulate the feats of team-mate Nathan Hales, who won gold with an Olympic record score the day before at Chateauroux Shooting Centre.

When her moment came, Hall hit 117 targets that left her four targets and six places short of a place in the final. 

The youngster hopes this is the first of many appearances at the Games and she is already dreaming of California in four years’ time.

“You never really know what to expect in an Olympics,” said Hall.

“I’m so glad I’ve had the opportunity to compete in one and be in the environment. It’s a great learning experience and I will definitely be back for LA.”

Hall, whose family were able to watch her compete in Paris, has been supported by the National Lottery on her journey to the Games.

“The team at British Shooting – it’s a family, we’re a family,” said Hall.

“We have the best support staff, the best coaches, the best everything for us. Everybody really helps support, do everything they can to help be us our best and be successful on the world stage. 

“UK Sport, National Lottery – without the help of all these people, us athletes wouldn’t be able to live these dreams like we have been doing.”

National Lottery players raise more than £30million a week for Good Causes including vital funding into sport – from grassroots to elite. To find out more visit:www.lotterygoodcauses.org.uk