The top three contenders for BBC Young Sports Personality of the Year 2023 have been announced live on Blue Peter this evening (Friday 1 December), with GB archer Penny Healey among the final three.
Penny is joined by snowboarder Mia Brookes and wheelchair basketball player Charlie McIntyre. All three have been recognised for their outstanding achievement in the world of sport this year.
The Shropshire based archer, 18, made the move to senior competitions in 2023 but didn’t let it phase her. She spent the majority of the year ranked world number one and demonstrated her incredible talent by winning a huge number of competitions along the way.
Penny took home a gold medal at the first stage of the Archery World Cup series, securing a spot at the finals in Mexico. She also achieved gold at the European Grand Prix and the European Games in Krakow, in both individual and team events, solidifying her status as a rising star. She also won a quota spot for Team GB at the Paris 2024 Olympics.
Penny said: "I feel honoured to have been shortlisted for the Young Sports Personality of the Year award! It’s been a great year and being nominated for this award on top of that makes it even better."
Tom Duggan, Archery GB Performance Director, said: "It's fantastic recognition for what has been an outstanding year for Penny with her winning the Antalya World Cup and the European Games. More important is the growth and learning she has taken which is what will help her realise her potential in the future."
Penny was inspired to pick up a bow after watching the Disney film Brave. When she's not winning medals she enjoys hanging out with her pet emu Freddy.
If you've been inspired to try archery use our club finder to find your nearest club.
BBC Sports Personality of the Year 2023 is taking place on Tuesday 19 December, live on BBC One and iPlayer
