First place all the way for young gymnast
The acrobatic youngster has his eyes set on the prize.
When passion hits deep down in your heart and you do it, it’s safe to say that you are following your heart and that is what you were made for.
Lethan Smith (15) from Westbury has been following his passion for gymnastics for the past seven years.
His father, Ronald Jones said, “He was always doing splits in our yard. He pleaded with me to find a place for him to participate in the sport he loves and that is how he ended up training with the Golden Lions Club in Newlands.”
- Related Story: #Local-sport: Legends in the making
The young gymnast partnered with Decota Phillips from Noordgesig and the two have competed successfully in club competitions since then.
According to Ronald, the partners have always been awarded for placing first and only claimed a bronze medal in one competition.
“To be a successful gymnast and achieve your goals you need to be strong and flexible. You also need to concentrate and be committed,” said Lethan Smith.
Ronald said that his son was very dedicated and never missed practice sessions. The 15-year-old trains from Monday to Friday without fail. The senior Jones also wanted to take the opportunity to thank his wife, Natalie for her unwavering support.
- Related Story: Gleaming silverware for top rugger players
“Last year Lethan and Decota qualified for their Central Gauteng colours and went on to represent Gauteng during the South African games in Cape Town where they secured first place. During this year’s South African Games in Tshwane, they placed first again,” said Ronald proudly.
Lethan has also participated in the National School Gymnastics competition earlier this year and was awarded a gold medal for another first-place achievement.
He also won in his group category awards in Highest Mark & Section Winner 2017 awards for Central Gauteng Gymnastics Awards which was held in Fairlands a few weeks ago.
“Gymnastics is my life, and when I am older, I would love to become a coach. My biggest dream is to represent South Africa,” Lethan concluded.
