World Gymnaestrada 2023 here we come
The stage is set for an exciting display of talent, dedication, and unity as the South African gymnastics fraternity eagerly anticipate the upcoming World Gymnaestrada. The event- scheduled to take place from 30 July to 5 August in Amsterdam- will bring together gymnastics’ enthusiasts from all over the world with the promise of an unforgettable experience where individuals from different backgrounds and cultures will unite in their shared passion for gymnastics.
Representing the country with pride, the teams are busy preparing for their journey to the international stage. Made up of a diverse group of 162 participants, including coaches across six provinces, the teams reflect South Africa’s rich diversity. From budding talents as young as seven years old to seasoned gymnasts in their 70s, team South Africa showcases the belief that dreams can be pursued at any age.
Barbara Murphy, the coach of Team Western Cape, shared the team's inspiring theme: "Women of SA Rise Up." She explained, "Our team consists of juniors as young as seven years old and a senior gymnast at the age of 67. We wanted to showcase that no matter the challenges we face, we rise together as mothers, daughters, sisters, and grandmothers. We shall rise."
“For many of the 98 school-age athletes traveling to the World Gymnaestrada, this will be their first time boarding a plane and crossing South Africa’s borders to proudly represent South Africa on a global stage,” said Caron Henry, Head of Delegation and Project Manager for the World Gymnaestrada. “The World Gymnaestrada serves as a platform for gymnasts to showcase their skills, push their boundaries, and connect with gymnasts from diverse backgrounds.”
In the midst of this exciting build-up, one gymnast stands out for her inspiring journey. Connie (Cornelia) Esau, a member of Bemur Gymnastics and Dance from Cape Town, will be participating in her seventh World Gymnaestrada. Her involvement dates back to 1975. Reflecting on her experiences, Esau shared, "Every time is special, every time the experience is different. But it is always wonderful meeting gymnasts from other countries, experiencing such a non-competitive event, encouraging others, hanging out with each other in another country, I always look forward to that one week for years in advance."
Esau, along with a group of peers ranging in age from 60 to 79, will present a performance that reflects the traditions and culture of South Africa. While the journey to Amsterdam presents logistic and financial challenges, the club's members remain determined. With the support of the local community, they continue to organize performances to raise funds for their trip. Esau expressed her gratitude, saying, "Fortunately, colour and origin are no longer an obstacle to doing gymnastics together. That is so important, it gives such a better feeling. Discrimination is the worst thing there is, and the fact that we no longer have to deal with it is a great relief."
As gymnasts eagerly prepare to showcase their skills and teams gear up to demonstrate their creativity, the anticipation within the South African Gymnastics community is reaching new heights. With the departure of the teams scheduled for the 27th and 28th of July, supporters can stay updated on all the action through Gymnastics SA's social media platforms.
The stage is set for an exciting display of talent, dedication, and unity as the South African gymnastics fraternity eagerly anticipate the upcoming World Gymnaestrada. The event- scheduled to take place from 30 July to 5 August in Amsterdam- will bring together gymnastics’ enthusiasts from all over the world with the promise of an unforgettable experience where individuals from different backgrounds and cultures will unite in their shared passion for gymnastics.
Representing the country with pride, the teams are busy preparing for their journey to the international stage. Made up of a diverse group of 162 participants, including coaches across six provinces, the teams reflect South Africa’s rich diversity. From budding talents as young as seven years old to seasoned gymnasts in their 70s, team South Africa showcases the belief that dreams can be pursued at any age.
Barbara Murphy, the coach of Team Western Cape, shared the team's inspiring theme: "Women of SA Rise Up." She explained, "Our team consists of juniors as young as seven years old and a senior gymnast at the age of 67. We wanted to showcase that no matter the challenges we face, we rise together as mothers, daughters, sisters, and grandmothers. We shall rise."
“For many of the 98 school-age athletes traveling to the World Gymnaestrada, this will be their first time boarding a plane and crossing South Africa’s borders to proudly represent South Africa on a global stage,” said Caron Henry, Head of Delegation and Project Manager for the World Gymnaestrada. “The World Gymnaestrada serves as a platform for gymnasts to showcase their skills, push their boundaries, and connect with gymnasts from diverse backgrounds.”
In the midst of this exciting build-up, one gymnast stands out for her inspiring journey. Connie (Cornelia) Esau, a member of Bemur Gymnastics and Dance from Cape Town, will be participating in her seventh World Gymnaestrada. Her involvement dates back to 1975. Reflecting on her experiences, Esau shared, "Every time is special, every time the experience is different. But it is always wonderful meeting gymnasts from other countries, experiencing such a non-competitive event, encouraging others, hanging out with each other in another country, I always look forward to that one week for years in advance."
Esau, along with a group of peers ranging in age from 60 to 79, will present a performance that reflects the traditions and culture of South Africa. While the journey to Amsterdam presents logistic and financial challenges, the club's members remain determined. With the support of the local community, they continue to organize performances to raise funds for their trip. Esau expressed her gratitude, saying, "Fortunately, colour and origin are no longer an obstacle to doing gymnastics together. That is so important, it gives such a better feeling. Discrimination is the worst thing there is, and the fact that we no longer have to deal with it is a great relief."
As gymnasts eagerly prepare to showcase their skills and teams gear up to demonstrate their creativity, the anticipation within the South African Gymnastics community is reaching new heights. With the departure of the teams scheduled for the 27th and 28th of July, supporters can stay updated on all the action through Gymnastics SA's social media platforms.
