A PENARTH woman will turn out for Team Wales at this year's Commonwealth Games in Birmingham.

Julie Rogers, 23, will compete as a discus thrower in her first ever Commonwealth Games.

Ms Rogers said: "I am absolutely delighted to be selected for my first Commonwealth Games.

"It’s also my first senior debut as a discus thrower and I am very excited to showcase my power as an athlete.

"I’m also very proud to be representing Wales and the country that has nurtured and helped me grow as the athlete I am today.

"As a country, I just love how passionate we are about sport."

Ms Rogers has previously competed at the London 2012 Paralympic Games in seated volleyball when she was 13 years old.

After the 2012 Paralympics, Ms Rogers switched to athletics and became a sprinter.

She was rated in the top five T42 rankings, making her one of the fastest female Paralympic sprinters in the UK.

Ms Rogers said: "I started athletics because my brother was already at the track doing the hammer throw and I fancied a change of scene."

READ MORE:

Five Para athletes are included in the 22-strong athletics contingent heading to Birmingham.

This group includes three times Paralympic gold medallist Aled Davies, Commonwealth Games gold medallist Olivia Breen and Paralympian Rhys Jones.

Welsh Athletics national coach, Chris Jones said: "Welsh athletes faced the toughest ever selection criteria for Birmingham 2022, so I am delighted to confirm 22 athletes will be joining Team Wales from athletics.

"I am proud that the work and dedication of the whole team has been recognised by this selection and I am excited to see how the athletes perform.

"Within the team we have a great mix of experienced athletes who will be returning for their second and third Commonwealth Games combined with 11 athletes who will be making their debuts at Birmingham."

CEO of Disability Sport Wales, Fiona Reid, said: "It is so exciting to see the Welsh Athletics Commonwealth Games Team announced with such a fantastic group of athletes - some of whom have previously competed on the International stage while others will gain invaluable experience being in Birmingham. 

"An inclusive team full of great talent.”

The Welsh Athletics team will be introduced to the crowd at the Welsh Senior Outdoor Championships on Saturday, June 11 and Sunday, June 12 at Cardiff International Sports Campus in Leckwith.