Hard work was paid off for Gisborne gymnast Sophie Strano, with the teenager having just qualified for the Gymnastics Victoria State Team.
The 16-year-old’s milestone comes after years of dedication, having first stepped onto the mats at Gisborne’s Jets Gymnastics as an energetic two-year-old. By age four, she had earned a spot in the pre-squad, and she has been a regular on the competitive circuit since she was eight.
Qualification for the Level 8 (open) state squad was secured following Sophie’s performance in May at the Trial competition, where Sophie came first on Floor, second on Vault and first All Around (therefore winning the competition), and at the Victorian State Championships where she came third on Vault. Her combined scores from both events proved enough to earn her a place among the state’s top eight gymnasts.
It is a significant achievement for the year 11 student, who balances a rigorous 16-hour weekly training schedule alongside her studies and a part-time role coaching the next generation of gymnasts twice a week.
“During the competitions I was trying to stay as calm as possible, trusting that I have done the hours of work and that it would come together,” Sophie said.
“Now going into the Australian Championships I want to prove on a bigger scale that I can achieve my goals and also enjoy the experience while I am there.”
Sophie will travel to Sydney Olympic Park (Homebush) for the national Women’s Artistic Gymnastics qualifying round on Sunday, June 28, with the hope of progressing to the finals the following day.
The celebrations at Jets Gisborne are doubled this month, with teammate Abigail Mecklem also finding success. Abigail’s strong showing in Level 7 also earned her a state team spot for the Border Challenge, held at the Sunshine Coast last weekend.
The Midland Express wishes both Sophie and Abigail the very best as they represent their town and state in Sydney and Queensland.
