New wave of gymnasts set to challenge traditional powers

STUTTGART, Germany (AP) — From his back garden to the world championship podium, Rhys McClenaghan has come a long way.
McClenaghan became the first gymnast to represent Ireland in a world championship final on Saturday. Winning bronze on the pommel horse made him Ireland’s first medalist.
He’s part of a new wave of gymnasts from countries with little history in the sport now challenging the traditional powers. Growing up in Northern Ireland, where athletes can choose to represe