Published: 17 November, 2011
by MARIA VALLAHIS

A BRIGHT-eyed bunch of budding gymnasts competed in the London Twin-Piece Championships at Heathrow Gymnastics Club and came home with more medals than they could carry.

The voluntary team competition saw Tamiquu Gibson clinch gold in her individual twin-piece event. The talented 10-year-old said, “I’m always nervous but I handled it well. I ran on to the podium after coming first.”

Eliza Benedict and Julia Kerrigan, both 10 years old, teamed up to come sixth out of 30 pairs, while Eliza was rewarded with a first place finish following a graceful performance on the bars.

Shania Surgeant and Luna Williamson, both nine, also competed well and out of 30 pairs they came a satisfying sixth place. “When they called out our names I was really surprised,” said St Patrick’s School pupil Shania.

Camden Gymnastics head coach Karen Waldron said: “It was a fantastic way to end the season.

“I’m very proud of their achievements.

“They’ve worked really hard over the last year and it has really paid off.”

An energetic and talented boys team from the gym in Dalby Street, Kentish Town, matched the girls’ magnificent medal haul last week.  

Competing in their sixth outing of the season, the Camden boys finished second in the Peter Moore Competition.

Ben Vlasto, 8, came first on the rings and bars, while Oscar Statman, 9, took second place and Drew Cahane, 10, finished third.

In the under-14s category, Luke Apata, 11, won gold on the rings and placed second overall. Club-mate Issa Francois, 12, took seventh spot and Hugo Bennetts finished 13th.

Boys coach Alex Pakrah said: “They competed very well at the top of the region for their age groups. I am very pleased with their results.”
Maria vallahis