So, you think you could be the next Olympic star?

If so, you're not alone. A quarter of Britons think they could qualify for the next Olympics in Los Angeles, according to YouGov's latest poll.

If you're going for Olympic qualification or just feel inspired by the amazing talent on our screens, there's many ways to get involved in a new sport in Cowbridge and beyond.

Weightlifting

Emily Campbell secured Britain's final medal of the games with a bronze in the women's +81kg weightlifting. For those inspired by her achievements, there are many local centres to launch your new sport.

Kongs Gym, Bridgend, is Wales' largest hammer strength centre. Kitted out with an extensive range of free weights, resistance and plate loaded machines as well as Olympic platforms and power racks, this gym builds champions.

Dragon Athletic in Cardiff offer classes focussing on perfecting the technique of Olympic lifts, the Snatch and the Clean and Jerk. Become part of Weightlifting Wales' community at its weekly classes for adults as well as teens. 

Running

Keely Hodgkinson stole the show and the nation's heart at the Stade de France with her Gold medal at the Women's 800m.

If you're looking to get into running, Cowbridge and the rest of the Vale boast an active scene which keenly welcomes new members.

Join Cowbridge Moovers' social running sessions which run Monday and Wednesday starting at Cowbridge Medical Centre and Graig Penllyn, Barley Mow Car Park on Friday. Its sessions are free, a friendly mixed ability and a great way to build up your running level under the guidance of a qualified Run Leader. Sessions incorporate a variety of activities including intervals, speed, drills 'n skills and progressive runs.

Park runs are another great way to get into running. Easy and free to sign up to, weekly 5k runs start at 9am on Saturday mornings at Porthcawl, Barry Island as well as Cosmeston and Cardiff. These are inclusive events run by friendly volunteers. Join the Cowbridge Moovers for a post-park run coffee at Porthcawl.

Sailing

Solva's very own Micky Beckett made Wales and the rest of the UK very proud finishing 6^th in the Men's Dinghy event in Marseille.

There's no better place to launch your sailing career than in Wales. The Royal Yachting Association Cymru Wales produces highly successful sailors within its community built by passionate instructors and inclusive clubs.

Cardiff Bay Yacht Club, home of Gold and Silver Olympian medallist Hannah Mills, runs RYA standard courses for both adults and children. It is an active and social club with weekly racing and an annual Club regatta.

Across the bay, Cardiff Sailing Centre also offers a wide range of adult and youth level sailing courses for all levels, in close collaboration with RYA Wales.

Judo

The Japanese martial art is surprisingly easy to get involved with in the Vale.

Stephen Cooper has been running his Judo club since 2007 and is registered with the British Judo Association.

The club runs on Tuesdays 6- 8:30 pm at Ystradowen Village Hall. It is "non-profit" with no joining fee, just 4 pounds for mat hire per session. The whole family is invited to Steve's mixed ages club. [email protected]

Alternatively, the Silverbacks in Welfare Hall, Bridgend offer separate age classes on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Its members compete in local competitions under the inspiring lead of head coach Sensei Ian Evans.

Karate

Budo Jissen Karate in St Athans and Llantwit Major offer weekly Shotokan Karate classes in a safe, respectful, and inclusive environment. Their mission is to inspire physical fitness, enhance self-discipline, and foster mutual respect among members. As a non-profit organisation, BJK is driven by the passion and dedication of their experienced volunteer instructors. They deliver practical and applied training in Shotokan Karate as well as a supportive and uplifting community.

Basketball

Join South Wales' longest running basketball club the Barry Huskies. They have recently started a women's session run by a female coach at its base at Whitmore high school, Barry.

Gymnastics

At Barry YMCA, the team runs adult gymnastic classes on Mondays 8:30-10pm. No prior experience is needed, the experienced coaches are at your side helping you achieve whatever your goals.

Yoga

Although not an Olympic sport, the yoga scene in Cowbridge is very active and a great way to get back into fitness. Rosalind runs classes at Cowbridge Free Church Monday, Wednesday and Friday. It is an inclusive club welcoming all ages and abilities, specialising in Hatha Yoga but takes inspiration from other Yoga traditions.  [email protected]