On 1st -3rd October 2021 the tumblers travelled to The International Centre in Telford to compete in the British Age Group Open, the first national level competition in 2 years and also a trial for the World and World Age Championships! This was also the first time that most of the tumblers have competed at such a big event. As expected, the standard was high at the British but the tumblers from Spelthorne managed to hold their nerve and there were some very impressive performances.

Firstly, was the 9-10 girls age group category. Elle- Rose and Skyla narrowly missed out on a placing in the final finishing in joint 9th place. Then we had Leila finishing in 16th which was impressive considering it was her first ever tumbling competition and finally Helena who finished in 22nd place. Great work girls!

Then we had the 9-10 boys age group where we had both Cameron and Alfred competing. Cameron qualified for the final in 5th place, and finished in 6th and Alfred, despite the fact he was recovering from illness, did an amazing job to finish in 11th.

Next up were some of our more experience tumblers in the 11-12 year age group. Corrado started off a great weekend performing brand new tumbles and qualified to the final in 5th place. With determination he improved by one spot and finished in 4th just shy of the medals. Caitlyn did herself very proud finishing in the top 10 and Minnie had an unfortunate mistake in her first tumble but still did amazing to finish in 22nd. It happens, especially in tumbling so well done to carry on!

The 13–14 year age group was next and Callie kept her nerve and got into the final finishing in a fantastic 6th place! Seb had an outstanding day and won a SILVER MEDAL which is his first ever at National level. Go Seb!

Moving through the categories, it was the 15-16 years age groups turn next with Alistair impressing everyone. He continued to show his newfound consistency and came 5th in a very strong age group.

Finally, in was our senior gymnast Elliott’s turn to show everyone how hard he had worked. He made a few uncharacteristic mistakes, but still came away with a BRONZE MEDAL!

A huge congratulations to all the gymnasts and coaches who attended this event, it was a long time coming and your bravery and hard work definitely paid off!