Twisters Gymnastics Centre sends 13 Gauteng provincial gymnasts through to SA nationals | Alberton Record

Twisters Gymnastics Centre is celebrating a landmark season after 13 of its gymnasts qualified for the South African National Championships, following a standout performance at the Gauteng Provincial Championships.

The provincials were held on August 28 and 29 at the National Training Centre in Centurion, drawing gymnasts from across the province who competed for a spot at nationals.

Twisters’ gymnasts left with an outstanding 26 podium placings between them, including one gold, one silver and one bronze medal.

“Twisters Gymnastics Centre was incredibly proud to have 13 gymnasts competing at the Gauteng Provincial Championships,” said Nadia Martins of Twisters Gymnastics Centre.

“Every one of our gymnasts gave their best throughout the competition, and we are extremely proud that all our participating gymnasts qualified for Nationals,” she added.

Medal winners

Erin Simpson (Level 4, 14+ years) – gold

Kasandra Kiaka (Level 4, 10 years) – silver

Lerie Swanepoel (Level 5, 12 years) – bronze

Kasandra Kiaka’s overall silver was a particular highlight of the weekend.

“Kasandra Kiaka obtaining second overall in Gauteng was particularly memorable,” Nadia said.

“However, one of the biggest highlights for us as a club was seeing the team perform so consistently across the competition and having an amazing team bond.”

Full team results

• Kasandra Kiaka – Level 4 (10 years)

Vault: second

Beam: fourth

Floor: sixth

Overall: second

• Ane De Jager – Level 4 (11 years)

Vault: seventh

• Luniko Qotywa – Level 4 (12 years)

Beam: fifth

Overall: seventh

• Koketso Kalela – Level 4 (12 years)

Vault: sixth

• Erin Simpson – Level 4 (14+ years)

Vault: sixth

Floor: first

Overall: fifth

• Jabulile Joy Sindane – Level 5 (7–10 years)

Floor: fourth

• Kaydin Barnardo – Level 5 (11 years)

Vault: fifth

Bar: seventh

Floor: fifth

Overall: sixth

• Lerie Swanepoel – Level 5 (12 years)

Vault: sixth

Bar: fifth

Floor: third

• Molebogeng Mangena – Level 5 (14+ years)

Bar: 10th

Beam: fifth

Floor: ninth

Overall: fifth

• Jessie Boardman – Level 5 (14+ years)

Bar: fifth

Floor: 10th

• Victoria Houniet – Level 5 (14+ years)

Vault: fourth

More than medals and results

For Nadia, the achievement runs deeper than the medal count.

“It represents countless hours of training, perseverance and commitment from our gymnasts, as well as the dedication of our coaching team and the incredible support of our parents. For us, it is about much more than medals and results. Watching our gymnasts progress throughout the season, overcome challenges and reach the highest level of competition available to them is something we are exceptionally proud of,” she said.

Eyes on nationals

Twisters’ 13 qualifiers will now represent Gauteng at the South African National Championships, taking place from September 24 to 27, once again at the National Training Centre in Centurion.\

“Preparations for nationals are already underway. At this stage of the season, our focus is on refining routines, improving execution and consistency, and making the small corrections that can make a significant difference at a national-level competition,” Nadia said.

She acknowledged that competing at this level isn’t without its challenges.

“Competing at this level does come with significant financial commitments for families. Competition entry fees, provincial attire, travel, accommodation and other associated expenses can quickly add up. We are extremely grateful to our parents for the sacrifices they make to allow their children to pursue the sport they love and compete at this level,” she said.

Looking ahead to nationals, Nadia said the club’s ambitions go beyond results.

“We would love to bring home some fantastic results, but our biggest goal is for every gymnast to perform to the best of her ability, enjoy the experience and walk off the competition floor knowing that she gave everything she could.”

A message to the Twisters family

Nadia had a message for everyone behind the club’s success.

“We could not be prouder of our girls. They have worked incredibly hard throughout the season and seeing that hard work rewarded with 26 placings and every gymnast qualifying for nationals is something very special for our club,” she said.

To the gymnasts, she said: “Believe in yourselves, be proud of how far you have come and remember that earning your place at nationals is already an incredible achievement.”

Nadia also thanked the parents and the coaches for their support.

“Thank you for the countless hours spent driving to training and competitions, supporting your children through the highs and lows, and trusting our coaches with their gymnastics journeys,” she said.

“Their success is a reflection of the work that happens behind the scenes every single week. Achievements like these would not be possible without you.”