Gymnastic gathering

By Philip Raphael - South Delta Leader - May 02, 2008

Phillip Raphael video

South Delta meet adds incentive of prize money for cash-strapped athletes

‘When we started this it was a sleep over with about 40 kids and we used one of the halls in the recreation centre,” says Carlene Lewall smiling.

Try that now and you’d need room for well over 600 youngsters from all across B.C., Alberta and Washington State who will be taking part in the Delta Gymnastic Society’s Invitational event on May 9 to 11.

The competition showcases a range of athletes from advanced recreational competitors to top provincial and national gymnasts. The spectacle is also expected to draw a large crowd to watch over the three days with upwards of 2,000 spectators on hand at the South Delta Recreation Centre.

One unique aspect of the event is a segment called the Cash and Carry Cup. Since 2002 it has offered athletes from all age groups the opportunity to compete for prize money.

While the amounts are not huge—last year the event gave back around $6,000 to the athletes aged 10-27 years-old—they can come in handy for gymnasts who require funds to travel to sometimes far flung competitions.

“Some of the athletes can do a lot of traveling during the season and that can add up in terms of costs,” says Jennifer Dober, coordinator of the women’s competitive program for Delta Gymnastics. “Being able to compete for cash at our event adds a little incentive for them.”

And as the competition has become more well known it has attracted gymnasts from far and wide.

“Testimonials about our competition have reached across the country,” adds Lewall. “This year we are expecting many additional clubs to participate in the fun, the excitement, and of course the rewards.”

As a result, the event is expected to draw more national team members, Olympians and legends from all across Canada.

The event is also a plus for local gymnasts who may have not had the opportunity to compete in front of large crowds. And being able to do that right in their own home town is an important building block of experience, Dober says

Plus, it provides the opportunity for the youngsters to show what they’ve been working on in the gym to their families and friends.

“Some of these athletes are spending 24 hours a week in the gym,” Dober said.

For more information about the Delta Invitational contact the Delta Gymnastics Club at 604-943-0460 or email clewall@deltagymnastics.com

n editor@southdeltaleader.com

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Gymnastic gathering

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