TOM Gale will never forget his senior international debut in the 2018 Commonwealth Games, but like any ambitious 19-year-old is already looking towards the future.

The Trowbridge high jumper didn’t enjoy the dream debut that he so desperately wanted as he bowed out of the qualifying heats on the Gold Coast after failing to secure one of the 13 places in the final on Wednesday.

But that is not to infer that his lasting memory of travelling with the England senior team was in any way an anti-climax.

“I’ve had such a great experience at my first senior international,” said Gale.

“Whilst I’m disappointed with not making the final, I’ve learned so much from my time in Australia and I’ve felt so welcomed in by the team.

“I’m grateful to the team who have supported me in getting to the Games, and I hope I can show them that their support hasn’t been wasted.”

The qualifying rounds on Monday certainly didn’t quite go as Gale had planned as he bowed out at 2.18m when he needed to clear 2.21m.

Gale entered the competition at 2.10m and the signs didn’t look good as he needed all three attempts before finally going clear.

Likewise, he only cleared 2.15m on his third attempt but then sailed over 2.18m with his first jump, giving his team cause to believe that he would go on and clear the 2.21m required to book his place in the final on Wednesday.

Proud dad Mark Gale said: “As the Games started, it was quite an emotional moment realising what a huge achievement it has been for Tom to earn his place in Team England.

“It suddenly sunk in that we really are in Australia and about to watch Tom compete in the Commonwealth Games.

“Tom had three good attempts at 2.21m, but was unsuccessful and bowed out in 14th place, while 13 jumpers cleared 2.21m and all went through to the final on Wednesday.

“We are obviously disappointed for Tom, but all his family are extremely proud of what he has already achieved in his athletics career so far.”

Gale’s senior career remains in its infancy and there is still the rest of the British and European summer season ahead, which is why his mind is already planning ahead.

Gale said: “The European Championships (in Berlin in August) will definitely be a target this year, and I am hoping I can do better than in the Commonwealths.”