We congratulate William Davies (Hutt Valley Gymnastics) and Ella Thomas (Christchurch School of Gymnastics) on their selection by the New Zealand Olympic Committee to represent New Zealand at the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games.

Selection to the NZ Team is a significant achievement and reflects the hard work, commitment, and performances both athletes have demonstrated on their pathway to international competition. Dakar 2026 will provide William and Ella with the opportunity to compete against some of the world’s best young athletes while proudly wearing the silver fern.

Congratulations also to their coaches, clubs, families, and everyone who has supported them on their journey to this milestone.

We wish William and Ella every success as they prepare for Dakar 2026.

Officials Confirmed

Alongside William and Ella, three officials have been selected to support the New Zealand team at Dakar 2026:

• MAG coach: Scott O’Callaghan – Hutt Valley Gymnastics
• MAG judge: Kyleab Ellis – independent
• WAG coach: Rian Reza – Christchurch School of Gymnastics

Scott and Rian will support William and Ella in their respective disciplines, while Kyleab will represent New Zealand as a men’s judge at the Games. We congratulate all three on their selection and thank them for taking on these roles as part of the New Zealand team.