NEILSTON’S teenage swimming sensation Becky Hillis was taking her talents on to the national stage back in 2003.

The 13-year-old had been enjoying her first year in the Scotland Youth Squad, taking part in intensive training sessions.

And once again she was successful in qualifying for the prestigious sportscotland-funded Talented Athlete Programme.

However, because of the travelling involved, she declined the award, choosing instead to concentrate on achieving for her country.

A pupil at the School of Sports at Bellahouston Academy, Becky said at the time: “This year is a big challenge for me. Last year, my swimming took me all over the country and it’s a huge commitment.

“I am enjoying being in the youth squad and my dream is to make it to the Olympics.”

Becky swam for Ren’96, voted the top club in Scotland, which at that time had eight members in the Scotland Youth Squad.

Head coach Graham Waddell was all too aware of the pressures on the youngsters and said they were taking positive steps to help them achieve their goals.

Meanwhile, there was praise for Becky from her proud mum, who said: “We have so many commitments, what with school, but hopefully Becky will take part in the programme again next year.

“At the moment, she is enjoying swimming with the youth squad.

“She loves her swimming and trains really hard.”