The final four days of the school holidays were filled with gymnastics, costumes, creativity, and plenty of fun as 20 clubs from across New Zealand came together in Palmerston North for the fifth annual NZ GymClub Challenge.

Hosted by Manawatu Gymsports, athletes competed across artistic, rhythmic, aerobics, tumbling, trampoline, double mini tramp and TeamGym, with the event centred on fun, individual challenge, and team spirit.

This year’s Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory theme brought plenty of colour to the venue, with decorations and costumes adding to the excitement and atmosphere throughout the four days.

Control Judge Myles Glass, who has been involved with the event for the past four years, reflected on the growth he has seen in the skills and gymnastics being showcased across the event in that time.

The GymClub Challenge also provided an opportunity for coaches to contribute to the ongoing development of Gymnastics for All programmes. Sport Development Committee Chair Pam Walters held four forums across the event, joined by committee members Monique Gapes, Myles Glass, Jamie LaBas, and Emily Houghton. More than 50 coaches from across the codes took part, providing valuable feedback on the proposed new programmes currently out for consultation.

Club spirit, creativity and sportsmanship are also recognised throughout the event, with this year’s overall awards going to:

• Club Spirit: Gymnastica
• Sportsmanship: Turn and Gymnastics Circle
• Creativity: Kapiti Gymnastics
• Top Club: Manawatu Gymsports

A huge thank you to Manawatu Gymsports and their volunteers, the judges who gave their time across the event, and Team Fun, who kept siblings entertained outside throughout the four days.

The energy, creativity, and support on display across the weekend were a fantastic celebration of our Gymnastics for All community and everything the GymClub Challenge is about.