Helen and Ciara Cleland Make Their Mark at Gauteng Provincial Gymnastics Event
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Image Courtesy of @bresciahouseschool on Instagram
The young athletes achieved bronze medals at a recent provincial gymnastics competition, qualifying them to go to the national competition later this month as part of the Gauteng team. Helen is 12 and in Grade 6, while Ciara is 10 and in Grade 5. The sisters are passionate about sport, having grown up active, but it was their introduction to Fanatics at school that really sparked an interest in gymnastics. "We've been doing cartwheels, handstands and flips since we can remember," said the pair.
Their natural ability was recognised by their dad, who encouraged them to join a club. This led to their joining the Junxion Gymnastics club, where they said they have grown and matured not only as gymnasts but also as individuals. "We love the challenges it provides.
It keeps us strong and teaches us to deal with pressure.
Going to the Junxion in the afternoons is great fun, and our coaches take care of us and really care."
They admitted to having trained hard for provincials and that they hoped to do everything perfectly, which gave them confidence, but they did confess to feeling nervous and a little excited when competing. "It is fun. We definitely support each other. We can practise at home and help each other out, sharing tips and tricks," said the pair.
As they are currently competing in different age categories, they are not yet competing directly against each other.
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Image courtesy of @ junxiongymnastics on Instagram Helen Cleland at recent Guateng Provincial Competition
"As a parent, I get more nervous watching Helen and Ciara than they do themselves," said their mother, Louise. "It is an opportunity to teach them that we learn from our failures as much as from our successes." She was proud of them regardless of the outcome, but said their success at provincials brought relief.
Mother Louise has watched her girls gain confidence through their enjoyment of the sport, teaching themselves to deal with nerves, to accept setbacks, and to celebrate success. She praised the club and coaches at Junxion for making it possible for the girls to develop into well-rounded young athletes with true friendship connections.
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Written by
Dee