Hill and Kneale to make Olympic debuts after being named in six-strong British shooting team for Rio 2016

Amber Hill will compete in the women’s skeet event at Rio 2016 ©Getty Images

Amber Hill and Tim Kneale are set to make their Olympic debuts after they were included as part of a six-strong shooting team to compete for their nation at Rio 2016.

Having become the youngest-ever Skeet World Cup gold medallist in 2013, Hill has continued to display her medal winning potential as the 18-year-old claimed the women’s title at the inaugural European Games in Baku in June.

She then backed up the achievement by securing gold at the International Shooting Federation (ISSF) World Cup Final in Nicosia in October.

“It was a really special moment when I was confirmed to be on the team,” Hill said.

“It’s what I’ve been training for and to know the hard work has paid off means a lot, I’ve had so much support from British Shooting, my family and sponsors, and this achievement makes me feel like I’ve done them proud.

“I’ve had to make a lot of sacrifices along the way and stay dedicated, but it’s completely worth it.”

Hill will be joined by three-time World Championship medallist Elena Allen in the women’s skeet event.

Men’s double trap world record holder Kneale will compete alongside ISSF World Cup Final gold medallist Steve Scott at Rio 2016 following the announcement of the team today by the British Olympic Association.

Two-time Olympian and world silver medallist Ed Ling has been selected to compete in the men’s trap, while Jen McIntosh, the most decorated Scottish athlete in Commonwealth Games history, completes the team having been chosen to represent Britain in the 50 metres three positions event.

Tim Kneale is due to make his Olympic debut when he competes in the men's double trap event at Rio 2016 ©Getty Images

Britain have claimed 44 shooting medals at previous Olympic Games, including 13 golds, with the now retired Peter Wilson claiming the team’s last victory when he triumphed in the men’s double trap event in front of a home crowd at London 2012.

“We have a great blend of youth and experience with a range from two-time Olympians to those experiencing their first Games,” said Phil Scanlan, shooting team leader.

“They are all Olympic quota place winners in their own right, and to manage that in the sport of shooting is a major achievement in itself, with most having to win a medal at a major championship to get the quota.

“We are coming off the back of a very successful two-year qualifying period for British Shooting, with many medals, both individual and team, won in World, European and Commonwealth Championships, so confidence is very high.”

Britain could still claim further berths for shooting at the European Championships, due to take place in Györ, Hungary, in February.

Following the announcement, British athletes have now been officially selected in three sports so far for Rio 2016, with the six shooters joining four canoe slalom competitors and eight sailors in the team.