Lefido Gymnasts Aim for Glory at International Championships

Lefido Gymnasts are gunning for international championships. Lefido Acrobatic Gymnastics Club (LAGC) is setting its sights on international championships, with twenty-one gymnasts recently competing in the South African Gym Games National Competition in pursuit of qualifications for the 2024 international competitions. Established in 2008, LAGC operates under the Golden Lions Gymnastics Club, providing a constructive outlet for children away from troubled environments.

Twelve groups and pairs from levels five to 12 participated in the competition, representing areas like Florida, Florida Park, Discovery, and Helderkruin. Ava Geldenhys (8) expressed her love for the fun aspect of gymnastics, while Crisabelle Truter (13) highlighted the commitment and dedication required.

Johann Truter, a parent and media liaison, explained that the SA Gym Games serve as a crucial competition for level five to level six gymnasts. However, from level seven onwards, success in this competition can pave the way for international opportunities, a goal the gymnasts are diligently working towards.

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The gymnasts showcased their prowess at the games. They secured 41 medals, including:

• 15 gold, 
• 15 silver, 
• 11 bronze, and 
• one fifth-place finish in level five.

Despite their regular four-to-five-hour weekly training sessions, the preparation for the competition intensified, requiring three additional training sessions per week, lasting three to four hours each.

Johann emphasized the dedication of the gymnasts, detailing the rigorous training schedule for different levels. Level five to six gymnasts train three times a week, with additional days leading up to competitions. In contrast, higher-level gymnasts commit to four to six training sessions weekly.

While the gymnasts excel nationally, their journey involves competing in at least three club competitions to qualify for the Central Gauteng District Championships. Subsequently, they aim for qualification in the Gauteng Provincial Championships, ultimately securing a spot in the prestigious South African Gym Games. Notably, the club’s top performers emerged from levels six to 12 groups and pairs, showcasing the club’s commitment to excellence in acrobatic gymnastics.

Source: Lefido Gymnasts gun for international championships

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Picture: Supplied by Roodepoort Record

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