Makhanda gymnasts excel in South Africa’s biggest gymnastics contest

By Staff Reporter

Four local gymnasts recently represented Makhanda and the Eastern Cape at the Gymnastics SA Gym Games 2024, South Africa’s biggest gymnastics competition, with spectacular results.

The competition was held in the Western Cape between 19 and 29 September.

To qualify, the four Grahamstown Rhythmic Gymnastics’ (GRG) gymnasts had to compete in two Eastern Cape competitions and make the Top 11.

Kaiya Van Heerden (Level 4) was one of the local gymnasts at the national games in the Western Cape. Photo: Supplied

On 22 and 23 September, they went on to compete in the nationals at the Western Cape Sports School and proudly represented the Eastern Cape. This was the third year GRG had qualified for nationals, and it was the first time four gymnasts had qualified.

The recent games were Milan Heinen’s first participation at a national competition. Photo: Supplied

“GRG had a spectacular competition with great results and experiences,” the organisation said in a statement this week.

Two Level 4 gymnasts, Kaiya Van Heerden and Milan Heinen had qualified for their first nationals and were up against a strong field of 35 gymnasts in their age categories. They both made 28th place, with one of their apparatus (Kaiya with rope, Milan with free dance and clubs).

Meanwhile, two Level 6 gymnasts, Siyolise Baxana and Marelize Potgieter, also had amazing results. Siyolise made the Top 5 in her age category and Marelize received a gold for free dance, ball, clubs, and overall.

Marelize Potgieter (Level 6) and Siyolise Baxana (Level 6) after their participation in a national gymnastics competition recently. Photo: Supplied

“GRG looks forward to keep representing Makhanda and the Eastern Cape at National competitions and qualify even more gymnasts for the competitions in the future.”