The Bermuda Gymnastics Association has announced a successful start to a six-month fundraising push to raise $50,000 to send a team of 14 boys and girls to Ynys Mon for the NatWest Island Games gymnastics competition in July.

Two individuals began the year by making gifts to Bermuda Gymnastics: Neville Trott, whose granddaughter Amari is on the team, asked friends to make donations in lieu of birthday gifts — his generous partygoers raised $1,415.

Meanwhile, Holly Wakely, a long-time member of the team, collected donations instead of Christmas gifts this year and raised $620.

On the heels of these donations, Bermuda gymnasts of all ages encouraged family and friends to take part in, or donate pledges of support for, the Argus “Walks the Walk” 5K event, which was held on February 22.

The efforts were encouraged by two local companies who offered to match donations: Strategic Risk Solutions matched up to $2,000 and ASW Law matched up to $1,000.

All in all, Bermuda Gymnastics raised $8,038 at this one event and was recognised as the largest non-profit team in attendance.

Special gifts were given to top overall earner Jordan Trimarchi, top girls’ team earner Samantha Soares, top boys’ team earner Taj Lowery and top junior team earner Talia Thompson. Gymnasts earning $100 or more for Bermuda Gymnastics were also recognised.

Bermuda Gymnastics has several more fundraising events scheduled for the spring, and is appealing to the local community to support the young gymnasts.

The team has a tradition of winning medals at the Island Games and is training up to 20 hours each week to prepare.

Amanda Baughman, one of the Bermuda coaches, said: “Any gift to Bermuda Gymnastics will bring us closer to our goal of ensuring that all athletes who qualify for the Island Games Team are able to attend, regardless of ability to pay.”

To make a gift to Bermuda Gymnastics, visit www.bermudagymnastics.com or contact bdagymnastics@northrock.bm.