SELECTION for your first senior world championships would normally be reason enough to celebrate, but Sophie Williams is toasting a double dose of good news.

After making her major international debut at the European Championships last month in Sheffield, the 20-year-old was last week included in Great Britain’s party for the global event in Italy in October.

The Wiltshire woman will join Chrystall Nicholl in the women’s sabre event, having lost to her compatriot in the Europeans.

That pick is welcome recognition of her blossoming senior career, but Williams’ long-term goals have also been boosted.

The Truro-based competitor was named in a revamped World Class Performance (WCP) programme which was reviewed after Britain’s poor showing at the European Championships.

One of only 24 included, it recognised Williams as a potential Olympic competitor and ensured she will have access to the best support and preparation facilities on offer.

The WCP is funded by UK Sport and British Fencing’s principal partner, Beazley, whose support amounts to £1m over five years “It means I’ve got to the stage where I’m recognised and means there is a bit more support with physio, conditioning and competition funding,’’ she said.

“The funding system has changed a lot, more is going through the programmes rather than individual fencers. It’s great news, for me and my club, Truro, and it’s also good for further down the road.’’

Williams’ Olympic credentials also make her a strong prospect for the Rio Games in 2016 and she added: “It was great to be selected for the World Championships too. I’m still at the stage in my senior career where experience is crucial – there is no substitute for it.

“I met my expectation at the Europeans and I’ll be using the Worlds as an experience event too.’’

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