SHE may not have brought a medal home but Kelty athletics star Bethany McAndrew says her Commonwealth Youth Games experience was "more than I could have dreamed of".

And the talented 17-year-old is hopeful that having a taste of top-level sport can help her race out of the starting blocks and reach similarly high profile events in the future at senior level.

Former Beath High pupil Bethany, a member of Pitreavie Amateur Athletics Club, was one of 11 track and field athletes in Team Scotland's squad that travelled to the Bahamas for the Games, which was held for the sixth time from July 18-23.

Competing in two events – the 100 metre hurdles and the mixed 4x200m relay – she missed out on a place in the final of her individual event before she and her team-mates finished fourth in the relay.

Speaking to Times Sport about her trip, Bethany reflected: "It was amazing and an opportunity that was more than I could have dreamed of. It all happened so quick; I wish I was there longer!

"I wasn't too nervous. In the hurdles, I didn't race as well as I'd hoped but wasn't too fussed because I was more excited to be there representing my country. Running in my lane with my Scotland vest on was overwhelming because I didn't expect there to be that many Scottish supporters there. I was gobsmacked!

"When I heard the announcer say 'Bethany McAndrew, representing Scotland' I realised what I was just about to do, and that it was all worth it".

She added: "The 200m is not my best event but I was determined to try my hardest. I wasn't sure what to expect; we finished fourth and although I was disappointed to just miss getting a medal, I was chuffed that we are fourth in the Commonwealth.

"I took a lot from it and, if I have an opportunity like this again, I will be more prepared."

Bethany, who was back in action for Scotland in the 100m hurdles and 4x100m relay at the annual under-18 and under-16 Celtic Games match against Ireland and Wales in Dublin on Saturday, added: "It has definitely pushed me a lot. I didn't think it was achievable but now I'm hungry for more. It's motivated me and made me more determined to work hard to get to the top level - I'm clearly capable.

"Everybody backed each other; it was amazing to cheer on my team-mates, have so much support from them and be there as a team.

"It's been a long season to get to this point but it is the highlight of my whole career."