Gymnasts shrug aside inexperience to secure massive medal haul
Published:Tuesday | October 10, 2023 | 12:09 AMOrane Buchanan/Staff Reporter
JAMAICA’S 11-member team returned home yesterday following their strong showing at last weekend’s COPA International Gymnastics Association (IGA) tournament in Panama.
At the conclusion of the four-day tournament, Jamaica secured a total of 50 medals. Samantha Bell, team manager, stated that while the youngsters were a bit nervous, the performances were “nothing short of amazing”.
“The Jamaica All-Star team chosen from our local primary and preparatory schools participated in the COPA IGA 2023 meet in Panama this past weekend, and our young athletes were nothing short of amazing. As the first international competition for all of our athletes, the girls were a little nervous going in, but they drew on their training, locked their elbows, pointed their toes and dominated,” she shared.
Bell lauded the families that took the trip to support the team and added that Jamaica’s presence atop the podium became a staple throughout the championships.
“At no point did the podium not include a Jamaican and we could not be prouder of these girls. Special thanks must be given to the parents and families of the athletes who came out every day in black, green, and gold, cheering the loudest for our Jamaican stars,” Bell added.
Tristan Hall, head coach, also heaped praises on the team while highlighting the inexperience of the gymnasts.
“The girls did really well considering that they’re all beginners and this would have been their first time competing internationally. The girls secured many top spots ranging from first to third place, and the feedback we got from both home supporters and those who came was really great,” said Hall.
Coach Hall added that the athletes were all pleased with their performances and that they are now looking at ways in which those performances could be bettered going forward.
“For beginners, these girls displayed some level of experience during the competition with holding their composure throughout the nerves, hiccups, and minor mistakes. At this point, all athletes are happy with their performances while looking at ways that they can improve,” Hall said.
President of the Jamaica Gymnastics Association Nicole Grant said it is the duty of the association to nurture local talent in a bid to continue churning out performances similar to those in Panama.
“The gymnastics community is very proud of our young gymnasts who have truly done the very best they could. They were determined to deliver, and we will continue to nurture them and keep them motivated,” Grant shared.