Reuters : Classy Mariana, 14, delights at Games time

At 14 years and 11 months, Avitia is one of the youngest athletes at this month’s Olympics — although her toned physique and statuesque poise as she lines up the bullseye make her look more mature.

“It’s brilliant. It’s really exciting,” she told Reuters, clasping an ice pack to a sore shoulder after a practice session in Beijing’s sweltering afternoon heat for the women’s individual archery event.

Best wishes to Ms. Avitia at the Olympics, just a couple of days away now. I’m sure to tell my club members, some of whom are older than Ms. Avitia, to inspire them to know that their dreams may be closer than they may know.