Gymnasts set for international exposure in Johannesburg
Gymnastics
Elite Rhythmic Gymnastics club is set to participate in the club competition at Gold Reef rhythmic gymnastics club in Johannesburg this weekend. Seven of their top gymnasts will represent the club. Head Coach and co-owner of the club, Eleonora Karamfilova, expressed her enthusiasm for the upcoming competition.
"I want to use this trip as a step to advancing the girls' careers by giving them exposure and experience," she said.
"I am super excited for my girls, who have massive potential and are ready to compete this weekend with the aim of reaching the World Junior Championships next year."
Team players
The team consists of recognisable names, like 13-year-old Kayla Duchaine, currently at junior Olympic level, and she was Namibia's top competitor from the 18th African Rhythmic Gymnastics Championships in Rwanda May this year.
She reached the best individual position among the Namibians in the final round of the junior category, ages 13 to 15, securing the fifth spot in three disciplines, namely, hoops, ball, and clubs.
Alongside Kayla are Jayd Pretorious (11) in HP4, and Meggi Shiweda (12) in Pre-Junior. In the front row are Nina-Mari Nel (10); Gabriella Mouton (13) in Level 9; Karli Conradie (8) in HP2; and Zara Duchaine (8) in HP1.
Challenges
Despite the excitement and potential, the sport faces financial challenges. Karamfilova highlighted the struggles the club encounters.
"The sport itself has faced a few challenges financially, as parents usually come on board to fund their children's trips," she said.
"The Ministry of Sport has not come through even though some of the athletes have a few notable achievements," she stressed.
Optimistic
Karamfilova remains optimistic about the future, emphasizing the importance of exposure and experience for her gymnasts.
"Seeing the girls compete and grow in their skills is incredibly rewarding," she said. "We are focused on reaching new heights and showcasing the talent that Namibia has to offer."
This weekend will be a crucial step for these athletes to gain experience and make their mark in gymnastics.