Freya, Year 8, joins UK Gymnastics team
Our Year 8 pupil, Freya, has qualified to represent UK Gymnastics in the International Association of Independent Gymnastics Clubs World Championships. Having gained top scores she has qualified to compete on Bars, Floor, Vault and Beam. She is joined by former St Mary’s pupil Abbie.
The competition will take place in Orlando, Florida at the end of June.
Freya, congratulations on being chosen to represent the UK in the World Championships in Florida!
Thank you!!
At what age did you start gymnastics?
I started when I was four, living in Holland. We moved to the UK when I was seven and I joined Chiltern Gymnastics Club in Beaconsfield then.
What do you most like about gymnastics?
I love the atmosphere and I love competing. My coaches are so friendly and so encouraging.
What are you most looking forward to about competing in Florida?
I am looking forward to seeing how different it is competing in a different country, and seeing how the other nations perform.
Do you have an idea of which nation you think will be the best?
USA, definitely!
How often do you practice?
I practise around 4 hours a day, 3 days a week. I practise at St Mary’s after school on a Monday, then on to Chiltern Gymnastics Club. I do 3 to 4 hours on a Wednesday evening and then on a Saturday from 8.30am to 2pm.
Wow, how do you find the time to do anything else?
I love gymnastics but I don’t let it rule my life, I still always make time for my friends and of course my homework!
Do you have any advice for other girls who are hoping to get to your level?
Go for it, even when you think you may not be ready, your coaches won’t choose you to represent the team if they don’t believe you’re ready, so trust them and trust in your own ability. I have had to do that a lot and it’s what has got me this far!