FORDHAM S Michael Simpson is targeting the Olympic Games after becoming European junior clay pigeon shooting champion. Simpson, 18, finished way ahead of the field at the event in Italy and, with a total of 174 points, he even scored more highly than ever

FORDHAM'S Michael Simpson is targeting the Olympic Games after becoming European junior clay pigeon shooting champion.

Simpson, 18, finished way ahead of the field at the event in Italy and, with a total of 174 points, he even scored more highly than every member of the British senior squad.

Simpson also helped the national junior side to a silver medal in the team event.

The Simpson family have enjoyed a great deal of success in clay pigeon shooting; Michael's uncle Barry Simpson is a former world champion and his cousin Paul Simpson has also won the European junior title.

Michael's father Peter Simpson has also represented Britain in the past.

He said proudly: "Michael has done extremely well against some very tough competition. He's much better than I ever was. We are now waiting for him to turn 21 so that he can change disciplines and compete in the Olympics."

Michael Simpson's next aim is the World Junior Championships in the USA on July 25, where he aims to improve on last year's bronze medal. Hopes are high that he will take the gold medal as he has previously beaten many of the competitors at the Triple Classic.

This competition involved three separate events which were held in Britain, Russia and USA. Michael scored the most points overall and claimed £1500 prize money.

Michael currently works at his family's garden centre in Fordham but has not ruled out pursuing a full time career in shooting.

Peter Simpson said: "He's beaten full-time pro's in the past and he is certainly capable of making a living out of the sport that he loves.