A symphony of movement heads to Wits University

Two Gold Reef Rhythmic Gymnastics are stoked to be competing in the National Championship after months of preparation.

From September 29 to October 3, Kristen Hannie and Jeanne-Marie Kitshoff, will head to Wits University where they plan to give the performances of their lives.

Head coach, Maureen van Rooyen, said the girls will compete in the junior Olympic section, which is in line with the international federation’s rules. According to Van Rooyen, it is hard work and perseverance, that’s resulted in them competing at this level. Dedication to the sport has them train up to 24 hours per week, at the Berario Recreational Centre-based club, where they have trained for the past seven years.

Jeanne-Marie can’t even try to imagine her life without rhythmic gymnastics. “It has pushed me to my limits and has taught me an uncountable amount of life lessons. I’ve learned to be patient with myself and have an incredible amount of confidence. I could never thank my coaches enough for bringing me this far; even though I have a long journey ahead, and for my family allowing me to do this sport.”

For Kristen, the sport helps her forget about the stresses of school and allows for her to focus on what she loves doing the most. In the time she has been training, she has also managed to build strong bonds with fellow gymnasts. People she best describes as having become her other family. Her goal would be to qualify for the 2026 Commonwealth Games.

As Van Rooyen sees it, it is not only the medals that count, but the journey towards being the best you can be. One that has a gymnast learn many lessons and in so doing helps form a strong and mindful individual.

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