Alexandra’s competitive gymnasts entertained whānau and friends with a performance under a black light at Thursday night’s annual prize giving.

Alexandra Gymnastics Club (AGC) members aged five and older celebrated their achievements from the past year in front of a 150-strong crowd at Molyneux Stadium.

A three minute long floor routine from the competitive squad was a highlight for many attendees. The squad have been learning the routine for the past few weeks, with four hours of extra practice to nail the timing, tempo and tumbling.

Tricks, including handsprings, aerials, leaps and dive rolls over other gymnasts were choreographed to a song titled ‘Dark Side’ by Alan Walker.

Watch a short clip of the routine here (1 min 4 secs). VIDEO: The Central App

Watch the full routine here (3 mins 30 sec).VIDEO: The Central App

Coach Claire Bell said she was proud of the squad, who despite some nerves, stepped up to share their skills and inspire other young gymnasts.

President Lana John acknowledged volunteer coaches, club committee members and volunteers who moved gymnastics gear in and out of the stadium throughout the year and gave up a lot of time to bring gymnastics to the Central community. 

Fifteen gymnasts went home with trophies, including the Shae Robinson Memorial Cup for dedication, determination and sportsmanship to Madeleine John.  

The Chen Cup for best competitive gymnast showing attitude, improvement, effort, cooperation and teamwork went to Lexie Rose, who was also awarded the title junior coach of the year.

Pictured (from left) are some of the prize winners Ruby Taylor, Lexie Rose, Ashleigh Robb and Jennifer Keen. PHOTO: The Central App

Jennifer Keen won the Brown Trophy for being helpful, considerate and encouraging, Ruby Taylor’s trophy was for the highest points scored at competitions and the most improved competitive gymnast, the Pratt Cup, went to Martha Anderson

Kahu Bedggood won the male gymnast of the year, Ashleigh Robb the female gymnast of the year, and the Consideration Trophy was awarded to Tessa Cowie.

Best all round junior recreational gymnast went to Charlotte Copeland, and best all round senior to Ria Taylor. The most improved junior was Ella Sim and most improved senior went to Isabelle Gwatkein. 

Sophie Laird and Nakaila Ferguson both received trophies for their respective classes (junior recreational and senior recreational.)

The club offers mini gym for pre schoolers, junior recreational, senior recreational, pre-squad and competition squad classes during school terms.

AGC has about 100 members and is a community run club. New coaches are welcome, training and support is available. Please contact [email protected] for more information. 

The final gymnastics classes of 2023 are next week. 

PHOTOS: The Central App