Year 10 pupil Carys Griffiths recently competed in the National Challenge Cup Level 3 in Gymnastics at Sophia Gardens in Cardiff. Carys came up against other young gymnasts from across the UK in the 14+ division, finishing 3rd on Floor, 2nd on Beam Bars & Vault and 2nd overall for Wales! We caught up with Carys after her incredible achievements in the capital.
Congratulations Carys! Tell us how you first got into Gymnastics?
I started gymnastics when I was 5 years of age in Caerau Primary School, and always really enjoyed the adrenaline rush that the floor and vault competitions would give me. I’ve always really enjoyed performing too!
Tell us about the previous competitions you have competed in.
I competed in the British Finals in Coventry where I finished 3rd place in the Tumble competition and that gave me the drive to enter more competitions as I got older and progress in this sport.
I train with Pen-y-Bont Gymnastics Club for 15 hours a week in the gym near Waterton, which works out 4 times a week including a Saturday. Every year we enter the National Challenge Cup and this is the best that I’ve ever placed!
You have worked very hard to earn those accolades Carys and we’re very proud of you! What’s the key to your success?
I’ve really progressed since I first started competing. I’ve put many more hours into my training, which has been a game changer and thankfully I’m reaping the rewards on the podium.
Do you have anything on the horizon that you are working towards?
I’m currently training for my National Grade One which gets assessed in a competition in Cardiff. If you qualify for this, then you can are allowed to enter the Elite level, which means more completions for me to take part in across the UK. The level of competition would be harder but that is what I’m striving towards.
Thank you for sharing your sporting journey with us Carys, we wish you all the best in your grade competition next year!
