GSF Athletes Shine at Skopje 2025 European Youth Olympic Festival

GLL Sport Foundation Athletes Shine at Skopje 2025 European Youth Olympic Festival

Nine rising stars supported by the GLL Sport Foundation proudly represented their Country at the European Youth Summer Olympic Festival (EYOF) in Skopje, North Macedonia, from 20–26 July 2025. Competing across seven different sports, these young athletes demonstrated grit, skill, and promise on the international stage, marking important milestones in their sporting journeys.

Standout Performances and Medals

Ishasriya Mekala (Cardiff) produced a sensational performance in badminton, claiming gold in the girls’ singles for Team GB on Day 4. Her dominance on court and composure under pressure were hallmarks of a champion, firmly establishing her as one of Britain’s brightest prospects in the sport. 

Ben Sykes (Belfast) also made it to the podium for Team Ireland, clocking a time of 10.57 seconds in the 100m sprint to earn a bronze medal on Day 1. His result underlines the strength of Ireland’s youth sprinting talent and marks a high point in his young career.

Breakthroughs, Heartbreaks & History

In artistic gymnastics, Lexi Holmes (Cardiff) impressed during Team GB’s sixth-place finish and earned a spot in the vault final. Unfortunately, injury struck before the final round, forcing Lexi to withdraw. Her qualification alone was a testament to her talent  and bodes well for future competitions.

In a historic moment for Team GB, the 3x3 basketball format made its debut at EYOF, with Irene Oboavwoduo (Manchester) helping her team reach the quarterfinals. Their strong showing laid a foundation for the sport’s growing presence at youth level in the UK.

Peggy Knox (Lewisham) and Finlay Storrie (Bridgend) both took on the tough road cycling events. In the time trial, Peggy placed 15th in the girl’s event, while Finlay finished 13th with a time of 12:49.733 in the boy’s competition. The road race proved equally competitive – just six seconds separated the top 33 riders in the girl’s event – with Peggy placing 23rd. In the boy’s race, Finlay finished in an impressive ninth place.

Fighting Spirit on the Mats and Tables

In taekwondo, Fabio Carvalho (Hammersmith & Fulham) reached the quarterfinals, while GSF alumni Max Cartwright (Manchester) fought valiantly but exited in the last 16. Both athletes showed flashes of brilliance and gained valuable experience on the international mat.

Peadar Sheridan (Belfast) competed for Ireland in table tennis, progressing to the quarterfinals after a series of thrilling matches. Though narrowly missing out on a medal, Peadar’s run was one of the tournament’s highlights for Ireland in the sport.

Looking Ahead
These nine past and present GLL Sport Foundation supported athletes delivered inspiring performances at EYOF 2025, from medal-winning moments to personal bests and breakthrough achievements. 

As they return to training with new lessons and international experience, these athletes carry with them not just results, but momentum, belief, and the respect of their peers and nations. The future is bright!