Steele determined to realise Olympic ambitions

In an era where we're regularly reminded of Declan Rice or Jack Grealish's decision to eventually declare international allegience to the English soccer team having previously worn the green jersey, Irish sports fan can be understandably be weary of athletes born outside the island declaring for this country.

Colchester-native Gymnast Adam Steele's case is a bit different.

"When I was born my real dad didn't want anything to do with me," he explains.

"My actual dad stepped in and has looked after me since I was three years old, since I was walking and talking.

"I can't remember a time before him. Before I turned 18 I asked if he wanted to adopt me. He said yes and now look where we are.

"It was always a dream of mine to compete for my dad's home country because he was my biggest fan when it came to gymnastics. We made that dream a reality by him adopting me and me getting an Irish passport and managing to compete for Ireland.

"I wouldn't turn it back in a heartbeat. I made the right decision."

Steele will head to Antwerp next month for the World Championships, representing Ireland in the all-around and trying to qualify himself for the Olympic Games.

The build up hasn't been ideal with separate shoulder injuries hampering his ability to train properly.

The initial injury happened on the rings, a discipline which Steele admits he's not a big fan of, as he prepared for the European Championships two years ago. The recovery took longer than he had hoped.

"We're still managing this shoulder injury," he admits before adding - "it turns out I've a tear in the other shoulder as well.

"It's nothing we can't overcome [but] it's been a tough couple of weeks, especially preparing for what is the biggest competition of my life.

"I've a great