Lawrence Okoye is the
19-year-old who boasts the British discus record, he also holds the
longest throw by a teenager in history and is highly favoured to win a
medal at London 2012.
The former rugby union player began training full-time in the discus
only last September and now at the age of 19 is competing on the senior
circuit. Ranked 7th in the world with the National record of 67.63
metres to his name, he has put himself amidst the world’s best discus
throwers this season.
Despite his young age Lawrence has a very mature attitude and
understands the dedication needed to succeed in his sport. Lawrence
excelled in a number of areas at school and had the chance of developing
a promising rugby career with professional contracts offered from a
number of Premiership clubs but he understands that the Olympics is a
once in a life time opportunity and one that should be grasped with both
hands.
Away from the field Lawrence will begin a Law degree at Oxford
University in 2013. He chose to defer his entry for a year to
concentrate on his throwing full-time, having also turned down an offer
for a track and field scholarship from Nebraska College, where his
father played American Football.
Lawrence is a motivated young man who is very articulate and media
friendly, he is a role model to the younger generation and would be an
ideal brand ambassador. His remarkable achievements in the most ancient
of Olympic sports speak for themselves and Lawrence has placed himself
as a definite one to watch for London 2012 and beyond.
