Gymnastics: Trampolinist's dedication takes her to the nationals

Tiana Tawha defies gravity during a training session in Whangarei this week. Photo / John Stone

Whangarei teenager Tiana Tawha is bouncing off the walls after qualifying for the 2015 New Zealand National GymSports Championships in the trampoline category.

The young Whangarei Academy of Gymnastics up-and-comer, 14, competed in an Auckland qualifying event last weekend, finishing second overall in her division.

Tawha's podium performance in Auckland was enough for her to gain direct qualification into the nationals, that take place later in the year.

Her coach, Graeme Smith, has been impressed with the dedication of the Whangarei High School junior, especially considering she is the youngest in her division, competing against 15- and 16-year-olds.

"She did very well in Auckland and I'm very impressed, her difficulty rating was very good," Smith said.

"She trained right through Christmas and even on Saturdays, sometimes, which goes to show just how determined she is."

Tawha will compete in another seven trampoline events this year before competing at the national championships on a yet to be confirmed date.

-Whangarei Academy of Gymnastics' preschoolers play gym programme, which facilitates and stimulates key co-ordination skills for under-5s, has almost been running for 20 years, according to manager Vicki Macdonald.

The programme, which is designed to help develop young children by "learning through play", is a step towards encouraging youth to get involved in gym sports from early on says Macdonald.

"It is all very good with their personal development. We do some classes with music, gym balls and gym mats to help with learning through play and imagination."

Classes run on various weekdays and are run by the Whangarei Academy of Gymnastics.