Rhys McClenaghan says he has realised his dream by securing his place at the 2020 Tokyo Games at the World Gymnastics Championships in Stuttgart.
The 20-year-old has become the first ever Irish gymnast to make a world final following his impressive performance on Sunday on the Pommel Horse, and in doing so has clinched a place in next year's Olympics.
McClenaghan scored 15.200 in his preferred event on Sunday, but had to wait until Monday evening for the conclusion of the eight qualifying rounds.
The Down native is among the eight gymnasts who have advanced to Saturday's final and is one of the favourites for gold.
Official Olympic confirmation from the international gymnastics federation (FIG) won't arrive until the apparatus final draws to a close on Sunday.
McClenaghan will compete in the pommel horse final on Saturday with finals starting at 3pm.
Last year he won the European title as well as the Commonwealth Games crown. However a shoulder injury put him out for six months and cost him any chance of a medal at the 2018 World Championships.
I'M GOING TO THE OLYMPIC GAMES!!!
— Rhys Mcclenaghan (@McClenaghanRhys) October 7, 2019
A dream come true.
Also first EVER Irish Gymnast to make a World Final... #ThinkOpenDoors #BeUndeniable pic.twitter.com/CP6kkDl0zn
