WINNER Ben Samuel was the star performer in Castle Court’s regional schools biathlon success – with a possible date at the Olympic Park in prospect.

The Wimborne-based prep school pupil won the under-13s event at Millfield to book his place at the national finals in London next April.

Other Castle Court athletes looking forward to an appearance in the finals after top-10 finishes are Geen Allen and Hester Mugford who finished sixth and 10th respectively in the under-10s.

Joining them will be Freddie Pryce (sixth in the under-11s), and Baden Davies and Josh Jack (fifth and eighth respectively in the under-12s).

Baden and Josh will also take part in the team event with fellow under-12 pupil Max Duffield.

The destiny of the other 20-strong Corfe Castle squad depends on the results of remaining regional qualifiers.

The event is organised by Pentathlon Great Britain with all athletes having to swim and run to an equally high standard.

The national finals are normally held at Crystal Palace, but there is speculation that the next event will be held in the Olympic Park as part of the 2012 legacy.

Castle Court’s director of sport Nick Robinson said: “Biathlon is a highly challenging and skilful sport, with competitors having to be on top of their game at both running and swimming.

“Our head of biathlon Jennifer Sweetlove and Emma Richards, from Swim Bournemouth, have worked hard to develop our training programmes.

“Castle Court has a national reputation for excellence in this area.”