The season may not begin until next month, but local gymnasts got off to a head start thanks to a special camp last week.
The Athabasca FLIPS Gymnastics Club held the camp at the Athabasca Regional Multiplex from Monday to Friday. Gymnasts of all ages took part in the event, working off the summer rust and giving themselves a leg up as they head into their first season in the competitive stream.
Giving the kids that head start was a big reason why the club decided to hold the camp for the first time, according to FLIPS president Kerry McNamara.
“It’s a good way to jump start it and get them into the swing of things,” she said. “They’ve been having a blast this week.”
The camp also served as an opportunity for newcomers and curious young athletes to give gymnastics a try and see if it’s for them.
“For the upper level gymnasts it’s to get back into shape and training. And it’s a way to introduce kids to the sport so they can get a feel for it, experience the sport and hopefully join the program.”
With the camp out of the way, the focus turns to the new season. The FLIPS annual general meeting will be held at the Agriplex on Sept. 1 at 7 p.m., and the first ten-week session of the season will begin on Sept. 20. McNamara hopes the first year of competitive gymnastics will be a big success.
“There’s no turning back. We’re anxious to see where it takes us in five years, and hopefully it’s the right decision,” she said.
“It’s exciting times.”
For more on the FLIPS club, visit the website at www.athabascaflips.ca.
