ALMOST 1,000 junior gymnasts – including athletes from Jimboomba Gymnastics – competed in the title of state champion as part of the Gymnastics Queensland Junior State Championships.
The junior state championships is one of the most significant events on the gymnastics calendar. All competitors have to qualify at a regional level in order to compete.
Gymnastics Queensland chief executive officer Kym Dowdell said competitors from 57 clubs took to the floor in vault, bars, rings and beam during the five-day event which ended Tuesday at the Sleeman Sports Complex Arena.
“This event is the culmination of months of hard work, training and commitment from these young gymnasts, who have all performed at a high level in their regional area,” Ms Dowdell said.
“I’m confident the routines will be very impressive from both the male and female gymnasts.”
“It is a great opportunity for gymnasts to learn from their peers across the state, with competitors travelling from as far north as Cairns and Townsville right down to the southern Gold Coast.”
Ms Dowdell said gymnasts performed at an individual level in addition to a regional challenge which took place on the final day of competition.
“Teams have been selected from each region to compete in the regional challenge which is always an exciting spectacle with plenty of good natured rivalry.”
“I wish all competitors the best of luck with their final preparations and encourage people to come and see for themselves the amazing abilities these gymnasts possess.”
Representing Jimboomba were WAG level 4 Daniella Novak, competing in the under 10s, Mia Pascoe and Erin Saxelby competing in the under 11s and Taryn Seymour competing in the under 12s.
Jimboomba Gynmastics head coach Callie Wall said the girls had to score more than 34 out of a possible 40 at a sanctioned event early this year to qualify
“This will be their first time competing with the best of the best at a state championships,” she said.
Erika Duncan competed in WAG level 6.
“Erika trains 12 hours a week and is an inspiration to our younger gymnasts,” said Ms Wall.
“To qualify, Erika had to score above 33.5 out of a possible to 40, which she easily achieved.
“This year, Erika also passed her beginner coaches course so she assists our team coaches with their classes in between her busy training schedule and school work.”
Ms Wall said the club was proud of all its representatives.
“The girls have worked very hard to perfect their skills in training and are looking forwards to participating in such a big event.”
