A BROMLEY Cross teenager is on top of the world at the minute literally.

Cyclist Kiera Byland has just returned from the Special Olympic Games in Los Angeles with three heavy bits of luggage around her neck – gold medals.

The Bolton College pupil was one of the stars of the Great British squad and was delighted to touch back home last Wednesday after a rollercoaster ride which involved meeting the likes of Audley Harrison and also being involved in the opening ceremony where the main attraction was Stevie Wonder and Michelle Obama.

The 17-year-old said: "I am over the moon and feel really happy about it.

"A few months ago I was thinking it would be great to get a medals but to win three golds is amazing.

"But it was not just about winning at the top, it was the friendships I have made and meeting different people.

"Many of the people I would love to keep in contact with and they are friendships I will never forget."

Kiera topped the podium in the 5k race (9mins 06secs) then followed it up with a victory in a time of 19:10.93 in the 10k.

She then rounded it off in the 15k crossing the line in 28:17:87 – some 51 seconds clear of her nearest rival.

The 17-year-old is part of a 115-strong Great Britain squad in America testing herself against some of the world’s best talent where 171 countries have been in action.

It is just the latest success for Kiera as she was named the Disabled Sports Achiever of the Year at the Bolton Sports Awards last year.

n Turn to Page 18 for more news on her exploits