Local judo heroes want joy at Rio 2016
Natalie Powell will bid to maintain Great Britain's proud Olympic medal record as part of a seven-strong Great Britain judo squad announced for Rio 2016.
Two-time Masters medallist Powell pipped London 2012 silver medallist Gemma Gibbons to the women's -78kg slot to earn a place at her first Games.
Powell said: "It's amazing to be selected for my first Olympic Games and I honestly cannot wait to step on the mat in Rio.
"I have demonstrated that I can consistently medal at the highest level and I have beaten many of the world's top 10 in competition.
"I'm really confident that come August with such a strong coach and team behind me I will be in the best shape possible to challenge the world's best and stand on top of the podium in Rio."
Powell is joined in the women's squad by Alice Schlesinger, who won gold in the Baku Grand Slam last month, Sally Conway, who is taking part in her second Games, and rising star Nekoda Davis.
Also taking part in their second Olympics in the men's competition are Ashley McKenzie and Colin Oates, while Benjamin Fletcher completes the seven-strong line-up.
British Judo performance director Nigel Donohue said: "The team have earned their place at the Rio 2016 Olympics over a tough and intensive two-year qualification period and have produced some fantastic results.
"They have performed at a high standard and medalled and placed at European Championships, Grand Slams and Grands Prix with consistent wins against players in the top 10."
