Flexible duo have national aspirations
NGN talks to two of Durban North's brightest stars on the rhythmic gymnastics scene.
THEY personify grace and elegance when they leap and pirouette around the gym floor mesmerising all who watch. It’s the gymnastic event that monopolises most of the world’s attention and for Durban North residents and rhythmic gymnastics extraordinaires, Taryn Christie-Taylor and Brittany McDonald, it’s more than a sport, it’s an art form.
One of the distinguishing features of rhythmic gymnastics is that it is performed on the mat, rather than on an apparatus. Brittany and Taryn were recently selected to represent KZN at the rhythmic nationals and both have their minds set on one day representing South Africa at the Olympics.
But the flexible duo are under no illusions that the road to a national spot will require dedication and hard work.
Taryn has represented KZN eight times at the provincial champs and started rhythmic gymnastics at the age of six.
“I love to express myself and the sport was the best way to do it. Every routine we perform is meticulously choreographed and that’s the most appealing part of rhythmic gymnastics. It’s all invented from scratch,” Taryn said.
Brittany, who was chosen for the South African rhythmic gymnastics that will compete in the Zone 6 Championships later this month, said the camaraderie and support is one aspect that sets rhythmic gymnastics apart from other sports.
“Being a rhythmic gymnast can help make dance routines so interesting because you have such a wide range of elements to choose from. It has given me life experience and new skills including goal-setting and discipline,” she said.
