Team South Africa claimed gold at the 17th African Artistic Gymnastics Championship, as the competition wrapped up at Heartfelt Arena in Pretoria on Saturday, 27 May 2023.
The 17th edition of the competition sees hosts South Africa claim the number one spot after maintaining an early lead throughout the competition, leading the table at the end of every rotation to eventually dethrone Egypt.
Gymnastics South Africa President Donny Jurgens praised the team on this phenomenal achievement.
“This is an historic night for South African gymnastics, our first team victory in the women’s artistic team competition since 2006. The support was amazing and gymnastics is alive and well in South Africa. The level of women’s artistic gymnastics displayed tonight was exceptional, and we congratulate all the winners for showcasing their talents so expertly.”
This means South Africa gain an automatic qualification for the World Championship in Antwerp, Belgium, which is set to take place later this year.
South Africa secured another medal through the individual category when Caitlin Rooskrantz got silver, finishing after Algeria’s Kaylia Nemour.
SA coach, Ilse Pelser was pleased by her gymnasts’ performance.
“It’s a massive relief, the girls did their job to perfection. The goal was for three of our gymnasts to go clean on each apparatus, and they did that. It’s always nice after the event.”
Photo 1 Caption: Caitlin Rooskrantz, Shante Toti, Caleigh Anders, Garcelle Napier and Naveen Daries on the podium as they are crowned champions at the African Artistic Gymnastics Championship at Heartfelt Arena, Pretoria on Saturday, 27 May 2023. Photo: Caitlin Rooskrantz (Instagram)
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