Talented nine-year-old gymnast, Kirston Jansen had the honour of being selected as one of the top gymnasts to compete at the annual Turin Acrobatics Cup in Italy in July.
Three years ago she started her gymnastics journey as a member of the Lefido Legacy of Trust Acrobatics Gymnastics Club in Newlands, which has been providing training opportunities to the underprivileged children in the surrounding areas. The club is self-funded, and rely on sponsorships and donations to enable deserving gymnasts to participate in competitions they themselves cannot afford.
Kirston had a golden year in 2018 when she showcased her remarkable skills in the women’s pairs and women’s three group categories, and won a gold medal in every competition that year. Those awards secured her the Section Winner Award from the Central Gauteng Gymnastics Association.
In 2019 she focused more on competing in the women’s pairs category and again won first place at the Regional, Provincial and National Championships. With her achievements she qualified and was selected to compete on international level at the Turin Cup.
This year she is working hard to prepare for the competition, but is still facing a financial struggle. Competing overseas requires an estimated R50 000 per gymnast to pay for transport, accommodation, meals, competition fees and clothing, and training.
Family and friends are hoping to raise the needed funds to allow Kirston the opportunity to participate in the competition and for her talent to be showcased. Anyone willing to make a donation or for any information, contact Ursula Norkie on 082 905 0785.
