US medal haul for gymnasts (From Barry And District News)

US medal haul for gymnasts

10:04am Thursday 26th July 2012 in Sport

EIGHT Barry YMCA gymnasts and three coaches recently arrived home tired but happy after winning 11 medals and having a fantastic experience when they competed at the San Dollar Invitational event at the World of Sport in Florida. The Barry gymnasts joined over 1,000 gymnasts from America and other countries at the competition. The American gymnasts are amongst the highest level gymnasts in the world so the Barry gymnasts and coaches were in awe at the standard of performance that took place across the weekend.

In the Prep Optional Senior and Level 7 events, medals were awarded to the top six gymnasts. Tia Ali gained an all around medal placing 6th overall and added to this with a 3rd on beam and 5th on bars. Ellice Stockford climbed onto the podium on two occasions placing 5th on bars and floor. Chelsea Slack also claimed two medals placing 4th on bars and 6th on vault. Ellie Peterson continued the medal run placing 2nd on beam and joint 5th on floor with her teammate Ellice. Seren Mirza Davies added to the medal tally placing 6th on beam. Elisha Watkins was the sole Barry representative in Prep Optional Junior event where the top three gymnasts were awarded medals. Elisha performed a number of new skills to place 4th overall.

In the higher Level 7 Junior B event, the top six gymnasts were awarded medals. Barry YMCA was represented by Alana Stokes and Nia Davies in this category who both successfully performed a number of new skills. Alana claimed a 6th place medal on bars, and placed 8th overall. Nia placed 7th on floor and 9th overall. A great experience was had by both gymnasts and coaches. A huge thanks is given to everybody who helped with the fundraising to enable this trip to take place. Special thanks to Barry Town Council, Dinas Powys Town Council and Kelleway Builders.

Barry YMCA Gymnastics Club have organised a summer programme which includes taster sessions in a variety of disciplines. To find out more about the summer programme or find out about more about the gymnastics opportunities available year round at Barry YMCA call 01446 724001.