COVID-19 did not stop Powell River Gymnastics and Circus Competitive Gymnastics Team athletes from garnering an impressive total of titles during the recent BC Gymnastics Championships competition, which was held virtually due to COVID-19.
Team members continued to adapt to the new way of competing and combined for 12 titles overall, including 25 medals, eight ribbons, three plaques and one trophy in their second virtual competition.
Due to the lack of a live audience, gymnasts made the empty gym lively, giving support and cheering each other on, according to a media release from Powell River Gymnastics executive director Michele Dillon.
“Parents and extended family logged on via Zoom from their homes to watch and celebrate each performance. Coaches and volunteers helped with logistics to organize the gym; as well as take photos and videos for the competition.”
The release stated that it was a great test for the athletes as the provincial championships were the most important competition of the year, and everyone gave their best effort.
“This is the new generation of local athletes, and they are just starting their gymnast lives. If they continue in this direction, they have great potential to achieve amazing results and actively represent the city of Powell River.”
Coaches and staff value and admire the group of athletes, according to the release.
“The dedication, ability to concentrate and overcome during a challenging season is commendable. There is so much positivity to take from this competition, and these are skills and traits they can use for the rest of their lives.”
Results:
Junior Olympic Level 1 (2010 to 2013): Xiya (Peggy) Liu - first on vault; third on bars; first on beam; second on floor; first all around.
Junior Olympic Level 1 (2014): Cora Pena - first on vault; first on bars; first on beam; first on floor; first all around.
Junior Olympic Level 2 (2013): Kinsley Foster - fourth on vault; ninth on bars; fifth on beam; sixth on floor; fifth all around.
Junior Olympic Level 3 (2010): Melodie Ouellet - 17th on vault; third on bars; 11th on beam; 18th on floor; 14th all around.
Junior Olympic Level 3 (2007 to 2009): Larissa Laing - first on vault; 17th on bars; 16th on beam, 10th on floor; 13th all around.
Junior Olympic Level 4 (2010): Hadley Foster - second on vault; third on bars; first on beam; second on floor; second all around.
Junior Olympic Level 4 (2006 to 2008): Cheyenne Choo - third on vault; third on bars; fifth on beam; first on floor; first all around. Elise English - second on vault; second on bars; eighth on beam; third on floor; third all around.
Junior Olympic Level 4 TEAM: Hadley Foster, Cheyenne Choo, Elise English - Third place as a team.
