How much courage does it take for a young girl to perform a handstand on a narrow beam or execute a demanding floor exercise routine while more than a hundred adults watch her every move?
In the spotlight Samantha Lang performs on the balance beam with extraordinary grace and confidence before a large audience at a mock competition on Saturday. |
The girls on the Motions Unlimited gymnastics team certainly know what it takes after performing on center stage last Saturday in a mock competition at their Industrial Park facility. The event was designed to allow the girls to get a realistic feel for meet conditions. A large turnout of family and friends created a convincing atmosphere that organizers believe gave the girls experience and an invaluable confidence boost.
The Cayman team, ranging in age from 7 to 15, is gearing up to compete in the Gasparilla Classic February 24-26 in St. Petersburg, Florida. The annual meet draws many of the best gymnasts from across the United States and Caribbean. More than 5,000 athletes competed in last year’s meet.
Saturday’s mock competition showcased a team that appears ready to wade out into deeper waters.
‘The girls have worked very hard, especially in the last month, many being in the gym six times a week,’ said Janine Olaso, one of the coaches. ‘We are very proud to see the great progress they have made and feel very confident that they will perform well at Gasparilla.’
Olaso says the coaches made sure to keep the US meet in perspective for the girls.
‘Our hope is that they do their personal best but most of all have fun,’ she said. ‘This is a wonderful experience for them and we want them to enjoy every minute of it. They will do a fantastic job representing themselves, their families, Motions Unlimited and, of course, Grand Cayman.’
Judging by Saturday’s home performance, the girls are primed and ready to give it their best.
‘I really enjoy gymnastics!’ said Ciara Jackson, 8, ‘It helps my body stay healthy and it’s good for other sports too. I am very excited to go away to the Gasparilla competition. My goals for the meet are to have fun and do my very best!’
Hannah Ebanks, 8, is eager to go for it in Florida later this month. She says she loves the feeling of accomplishment when she nails a difficult move, ‘like my back hip circle on the bars!’
Ebanks admits she is a ‘little nervous’ but very excited about going away and having this opportunity to compete.
‘My very first meet is a big one!’ she says.
Her goals for the Gasparilla Classic are: ‘Not to fall and to do my best!’
Motions Unlimited Team
Level 2: Hilary Cockhill, Hannah Ebanks, Ciara Jackson, Noelle Johnson, Fiona Ryan, Katie Scott, Polly Serpell, Amanda Thompson. Coach: Megan Conklin
Level 3: Bethany Dikau, Adah Grant, Nicole Fleury, Samantha Lang, Shenelle Stewart. Coach: Janine Olaso
Level 4: Lauren Hill, Samantha Mascarenhas, Justine Ryan, Shanaz Whittaker. Coach: Janine Olaso
Level 5: Bianca Alberga, Ashley Borde, Tanya Meyerhoff, Trisha Meyerhoff, Julia Watling. Coach: Alexis Pero
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