This past weekend, the Acrobatic, Aerobic and Rhythmic British Championships took place in Telford, showcasing the incredible talent of gymnasts from across the UK. Among the competitors were Welsh gymnasts who delivered outstanding performances in both the Aerobic and Rhythmic disciplines, bringing home an impressive haul of medals and honours.
Competing under the banner of Llanelli Rhythmic Academy, Welsh Rhythmic gymnasts made a significant impact. Their intricate routines and graceful execution led to a series of remarkable results.
Liliana Evans, competing in the U10 Pre Espoir category, excelled in the event. She captured the gold medal with her impressive hoop routine, added a bronze for her free routine, and finished with a bronze overall, highlighting her versatility and skill at a young age.
Athena Chan, competing as a guest in the U12 Espoir category, truly dazzled the audience and judges alike. Chan secured first place overall, with additional first-place finishes in hoop, clubs, and ribbon, showcasing her exceptional talent and dedication to the sport. Bonnie Williams also impressed in the same category, earning a bronze medal with her hoop routine.
The Dragons Group Espoir team showcased their collective talent. They won the gold medal for their free routine, earned silver in the hoop, and finished with a silver overall, demonstrating their strength as a cohesive unit.
Imogen Coslett, competing in the Pre Junior category, achieved a bronze medal for her incredible performance in her clubs routine, and in the Junior category, Amelie Haines earned a bronze overall, reflecting her consistent performance across different routines.
Elizabeth Popova stood out in the Senior category, delivering a series of exceptional performances. She won gold in the all-around and hoop, while also securing silver in the ball, clubs, and ribbon. Her achievements underscored her status as a leading gymnast in her category.
Welsh gymnasts also excelled in the Aerobic competitions, representing Phoenix Dance and Gymnastics. The trio of Harriette Jones, Megan Harrison, and Esther Jones competed in the FIG National Development Trio and captured the gold medal with their dynamic routine. Additionally, the team of Brianne Evans, Eliza Handley, Megan Harrison, Esther Jones, Hariette Jones, Carys Owens, Scarlett Price, and Taylor Sexton performed admirably in the FIG National Development Aerodance category, earning the silver medal.
Furthering the clubs success, Lowan Davies alongside the WLK team secured another gold medal in the FIG Junior Aerodance competition and in the FIG Senior Mixed Pair category Emily James and her English teammate, Connor Keane won the silver medal.
The remarkable performances by Welsh gymnasts at the Acrobatic, Rhythmic and Aerobic British Championships in Telford highlight the dedication, skill, and hard work of these athletes. Their achievements not only bring pride to their clubs but also inspire future generations of gymnasts. The success of Llanelli Rhythmic Academy and Phoenix Dance and Gymnastics underscores the strength of gymnastics in Wales and sets a high standard for competitions to come.