GRADUATE Gayle Adamson has put her university celebrations on hold as she heads for the 2002 Commonwealth Games carrying the hopes of the nation.

The 22-year-old picked up her first class honours degree earlier this week and has since headed off to Manchester with a bigger prize in her sights.

British synchronised swimming champion Gayle won a bronze medal at the games in Kuala Lumpur four years ago and is confident she can go on to glory once more in her home nation.

As she trains for one of the most demanding of sports, Gayle is celebrating her graduation with a first class honours degree in sports science.

She said: "It has been brilliant to get my first from Northumbria University but there will be no celebratory drinks just yet because I have to concentrate on the Games."

What Gayle will not forget are the psychological and physiological skills she studied during her degree, as she struggles through the two routines which often leave her gasping for breath.

Gayle, of Gateshead, is coached by her mother, Vera, for up to 25 hours a week.

She said: "Most people outside the sport don't realise just how demanding it is.

"You have to be very fit, flexible and agile, as well as strong."