Gymnast Ryan hoping to land in record books with reverse vault

Ryan Luney completed his attempt at the longest reverse vault at Carrickfergus Amphitheatre.

The 19-year-old leapt a distance of 4.427 metres in a bid to beat the never-before-attempted challenge.

All of the paper work and photographs have now been sent to the Guinness Book of Records for verification.

The former Carrick Grammar student, who now studies at Ulster University in Coleraine, has also been nominated as part of the 53rd annual Torch Trophy Trust Awards thanks to his work with Carrickfergus Gymnastics Club.

Head coach, Priscilla Stirling said: “Ryan has been committed to volunteering for five years.

“Week in and week out, he has dedicated his time and knowledge to encourage other children to maintain their health and fitness.

“He also dedicated a lot of his free time as a volunteer to help with Autistic children as a play supervisor and is a volunteer for Jump NI.

“He is very passionate about promoting gymnastics and freestyle gymnastics and realises the importance of health and fitness in young people.”

Ryan has also been instrumental in raising over £2000 for Carrickfergus Gymnastic Club’s designated charity, Children with Cancer UK.

The Torch Trophy Trust is a charity that rewards, recognises and supports volunteers in sport and recreation.

The UK-wide awards will be presented on March 3 at the Army and Navy Club, London.