Women’s artistic gymnasts from STEP 8 through to Senior International were invited to attend a four-day Performance Development training clinic, held at Tri Star Gymnastics 9-12 January.

The Clinic was led by WAG SDC Performance Coordinator Mary Wright.  Day one involved strength and flexibility testing which proved a challenge for some who’d indulged in an early holiday and out of training).  Day two brought skill verification, where various skills were tested against international requirements and standards.  Then the last two days were full of training sessions across all apparatus.  From this inaugural clinic, athletes will be selected for senior, junior and youth development squads.

Coaches of athletes were also required to attend and it was great to see them all work together to enhance their own learning along with their athletes.  Coach development also forms part of the Programme.

A new intake of younger athletes is planned, with testing likely during the April school holidays in Auckland, Napier and Christchurch.  The next Training Camp will be held in Christchurch following the CSG Classic.