THERE was success at both regional and national level for YMCA Barry gymnasts recently.

All eight YMCA Barry gymnasts who participated in the South Central level 6 and level 5 championships were thrilled to claim medal and ribbon awards following their good performances. Medals were awarded to the top three placed gymnasts whilst ribbon rosettes were presented to fourth, fifth and sixth place gymnasts.

In the level 5 12-plus years age group Lara Watkins had a successful day placing first on vault, fifth on bars and beam, sixth on floor, and third overall. Her strong performances secured her a coveted spot to represent the South Central area at the Welsh Finals.

Her training partner Bria Karim also had a positive outing in her first year in this age group. She placed third on bars, fourth on beam and sixth overall, which meant she was a reserve for the Welsh Finals.

In the level 6 10-11 years competition the team of Celyn Powell, Chloe Williams and Yazmin Michael placed third. Celyn had individual success gaining a bronze medal on bars and performing dance work to gain a fifth place rosette on floor. Chloe had a secure beam to place fourth whilst training partner Yazmin was thrilled to land her new moves on beam.

In the level 6 12-plus age group Ruby Karim showed great focus to produce a solid performance on beam which gained her a bronze medal, Aimee Fletcher showed strength on bars to gain a fourth placed rosette whilst her clubmate Chloe Gabb secured fifth place on bars. Ruby and Chloe also had overall success placing joint sixth which sees them both as reserve for the Welsh Finals.

The success continued for Lara when she represented the area at the Welsh Level 5 Finals. She gained ribbons for placing fourth on floor and sixth on bars. She also collected a ribbon for placing sixth overall in Wales, and a silver medal in the team event.

Congratulations to all gymnasts and thank you to the coaches for their continued commitment.

YMCA Barry offer a range of gymnastics opportunities for boys and girls from adult and toddler classes, pre-school classes through to recreational and competitive opportunities in artistic and rhythmic gymnastics.

They have added new classes to the programme including classes for beginner gymnasts which take place afterschool during the week in addition to the long established weekend classes. They also run cheerleading classes.

If you would like to find out more about the opportunities available please call YMCA Barry on 01446 724001.