Splitz gymnastics finished off their competition season in style by attending the Acrobatic Gymnastics Northern Ireland open. This competition attracted gymnasts from across the Island of Ireland. 16 gymnasts performed in seven partnerships across a range of grades. As this was a large cross-border event, the standard was exceptional.

First up was the grade 1 men’s pair of Charlie Corrigan and Lorcan McManus performing a high energy dance to Greek music which secured them the gold medal position.

They were followed by Emily Hanna and Dale Fisher in a grade 1 mixed pair who performed a theatrical routine to Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, once again scooping first place.

Next up was grade 2 trio, Phoebe Rutledge, Aoife McGuigan and Zara Fisher who rocked it with a fast-paced performance to ‘Rock Around The Clock’. It was a nail biting wait for the results in such a large closely fought category, but their efforts were justly rewarded with a fantastic bronze medal position.

Naoise Kerrin and Poppie Beddard represented the club in the grade 2 pairs. They slowed the tempo right down to dance an elegant, rhythmic display to a medley from the sound of music. Once again, another medal was secured with third place.

The first of our more senior competitors Jessica Hanna, Cara McDonnell and Riona Dooris took the floor to perform to an upbeat piano track in the grade 3 trios. They wowed the audience with an abundance of artistic flair and secured a top six position.

They were followed by our experienced grade 3 pairing of Naoise McManus and Sarah Rutledge who performed a clean-cut routine to Russian folk music. This was the category with the most competitors, but skill and determination saw them through to snatch the bronze medal.

Our final competitors rounded off the day in style with the grade 4 pairing of Orla Gilheaney and Kyra Duffy. Their routine encompassed the more technically advanced gymnastic elements and they were rewarded with the club’s highest artistry score, and a top six finishing position.

Head coach Jennifer Hanna said: “What a way to finish off the competitive season! We have two sets of Northern Ireland titles, several bronze medal positions and all of our gymnasts finishing in the top six within the Island of Ireland. It just shows what can be achieved with hard work and determination in an area where there are no dedicated gymnastics facilities. I am so proud of my gymnasts, coaches and parents for their continued support and loyalty.”