Medal haul in Florida
Bermuda’s gymnasts won three team trophies, produced two individual all-around champions and claimed 36 podium medals at the Gasparilla Classic held in St Petersburg, Florida, last weekend.
Sanaa Simmons and Isabella Charleson were the all-around champions, in the Excel Silver and Excel Gold levels respectively, while the island also claimed honours as the Excel Silver team, Excel Bronze team and finished third in the USA Gymnastics Level 6 competition.
The individual event champions went to Kassandra Hobson (floor), Ella Newton (vault), Ella Younie (balance beam), Kennedy Kowalski (floor), Sanaa Simmons (vault), Isabella Charleson (uneven bars), Bethany Cooze (floor), Sanaa Burgess (vault), as well as boys’ team members Gianluca Bortoli (rings) and Arman Newton (floor).
Bermuda’s more experienced gymnasts competed in the optional USAG Levels 6-10 against a higher calibre of competition.
Bailey Boyd was the highest-placing member at this level, coming second on balance beam, floor and third overall, while Sanaa Burgess was the vault champion.
“These ladies are looking to raise their personal standards and it starts with their work ethic and commitment to self-improvement,” Adriana Forde, the BGA head coach, said.
“We have a lot of work to do but nothing that is too far out of these young athletes reach”.
“The coaching staff would like to thank all the BGA athletes, family and friends that came out to cheer on our athletes or sent messages on our Facebook page.”