Donegal’s best young gymnasts put on a storming display as they brought home 33 medals from the recent national championship finals.
38 Citadel Gymnastics members set out for the National Indoor Arena last weekend, looking for success in the Artistic and Tumbling events.
Their women’s artistic gymnastics team shone, as they took a number of gold and silver medals – in Level 5, Aisling took home the bronze on beam, while Kailee’s focus earned her a silver on the same event. Darcey’s powerful performance secured her the top spot on vault, taking gold in Level 5. In Level 2, Mary Kate’s skill and dedication were rewarded with a silver on vault, rounding out an impressive showing for the women’s team.
The men’s artistic gymnastics team also brought home a haul of medals as they racked up rostrum finishes across the weekend’s events.
Eli led the charge in Level 2 with a brilliant first-place performance on the pommel horse. The Boys General 2 team, consisting of Eli, PJ, James B., and Cillian, placed third overall in the team category, adding to the club’s medal tall. In Club 2, James M. had a standout performance, capturing gold on both the floor and rings, as well as a silver on the parallel bars. In General 3, Sean’s strong vaulting skills earned him third place, while he took first on rings. Callum demonstrated consistency across multiple events, earning silver on vault and first place on both the parallel bars and high bar.
Meanwhile the jump-start tumbling gymnasts recorded another raft of podium and top-5 finishes. Aoibhe Mc took gold in Grade 1, while Aoibh Ni finished fifth. In Grade 2, Mary Kate and PJ also made the podium, placing third and first, respectively. Kaelum earned a well-deserved second place, demonstrating the club’s depth of talent. For Grade 3, Cora and Kaitlyn both placed, finishing third and second, respectively, in a challenging field of competitors.
Also, the intro tumbling team put on a stellar performance, with Jack leading the group to victory by placing first in his division. Sean and April followed close behind, each earning second place, while Cobhlaith secured third. Their combined efforts earned the team an impressive first-place team award, showing teamwork at its finest.
Citadel Gymnastics celebrated their achievements, saying:
“With medals in almost every event, the club’s gymnasts have shown that dedication and teamwork can lead to incredible achievements. Their impressive performances are a testament to their hard work and the support of their coaches, family, and friends. With 33 medals in hand, these young athletes have set a high standard for the season and beyond.”
“Congratulations to all gymnasts on an amazing weekend—your community is so very proud of you!”