After gaining promotion Grace (14), from Dronfield, took part in the final race of the season in the premier division where she competed against Olympians and national team athletes.

The race took palce at Llangollen Town Falls in Wales on what is considered to be the most challenging white water course in the country.

In addition to her promotion, Grace (pictured above) is one of only seven girls nationwide to have been invited to take part in the World Class Junior Development Programme, which identifies star athletes of the future and provides coaching and support.

Grace's achievement is remarkable as she has only been competeing in slalom for just over two years.

Grace, who has represented England in home international races this season, is a member of the Dronfield Baptist Church Canoe Cub and also Holme Pierpont Club in Nottingham where she trains three times a week.

Success in the sport would seem to be a family matter as older brothers George and Leo compete in the C2 class and this year were selected for the Junior Great Britain team.