Young gymnasts shine at Wanderers Club grading event

Excitement and determination filled the air as young gymnasts gathered at the Wanderers Club for the grading event of the GYM-badge programme. This event marks a crucial milestone for potential athletes, showcasing their hard work and earning them prestigious badges. The event saw an impressive turnout, with 73 gymnasts participating and showcasing their skills.

The GYM-badge programme is a three-tier developmental plan to prepare boys and girls for competitive gymnastics. As a pre-competitive programme, it emphasises fundamental skills on various apparatuses and focuses on building balance, flexibility, and strength.

The event featured gymnasts aged between 7 and 9, with seven participants aged between 10 and 12, demonstrating the programme’s inclusivity for late starters

Structured into three tiers – the G-badge, Y-badge, and M-badge – each level becomes progressively more challenging. Gymnasts start with the G-badge, training once a week. The Y-badge is more challenging, and the M-badge requires twice-weekly training.

Each badge requires mastering 17 skills, with basic and advanced options. Gymnasts start with basic skills and progress to advanced ones upon mastery. They often advance faster in their stronger areas while developing others.

To pass the grading, candidates had to score at least 100 points out of 170. This scoring system ensures that only those who are ready earn their badges. This year’s grading saw all 73 participants progress to the next level. Notably, 17 gymnasts were invited to move into competitive gymnastics, highlighting their exceptional performance and potential.

The event was a testament to the young athletes’ dedication. The Wanderers Club provided a perfect venue, fostering an environment of encouragement and sportsmanship.

Parents and coaches beamed with pride as the gymnasts executed their routines with precision. Successful candidates, meeting the programme’s stringent requirements, were awarded their badges in a ceremony celebrating their achievements and perseverance.

The annual grading event not only serves as a milestone for the gymnasts but also reflects the programme’s commitment to nurturing young talent for competitive gymnastics.

As the event concluded, it was clear that the future of gymnastics is bright, with these young gymnasts ready to reach new heights in their sporting endeavours.

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