Nigerian gymnastics took center state at the Centurion Gymnastics Centre Club Competition in Pretoria, South Africa, where NLNG RA Gymnastics Club clinched a gold medal and delivered outstanding performances that highlighted its rising influence on the continent.
The international championship, held at Centurion in Pretoria, featured over 250 gymnasts from across South Africa and Uganda, with top clubs including Klerksdorp, Centurion, Tuks, Visions, Paragon, Bloemfontein, and Jacobsdal.
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Nigeria was represented by two clubs TIG International Gymnastics Club and NLNG RA Gymnastics Club both showcasing skill, discipline, and growing promise.
The star moment for Nigeria came from Oluwapelumi Ilesanmi, who delivered a gold medal-winning routine that captivated spectators.
“I was very happy and shocked when my name was mentioned,” Ilesanmi said.
“I sincerely want to thank Coach Timmy and Coach Tony, my dance instructors, my teammates Joan Ezechukwu and Ayobami Oyelahan the NLNG RA Dance and Gymnastics Academy, and especially my mum and dad for always being there for me.”
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Team coordinator of the RA Gymnastics Club, Mrs. Nnenna Ahube, applauded the resilience and dedication of the gymnasts, noting that they exceeded expectations despite tough competition.
“Our gymnasts worked tirelessly and maintained their focus throughout the competition,” she said.
“Their commitment paid off, and we are immensely proud of what they have achieved. We also thank our parents and Nigeria LNG Limited (NLNG) for their unwavering support, which was crucial in enabling our athletes to perform at their best.”
TIG International Gymnastics Club also recorded a strong outing, finishing with two gold, five silver, and one bronze medal.
Gold medalists Angela Marinoni and Dida David dazzled with their precise routines, while senior gymnast Chenille Okpanku won five silver medals across different apparatus, finishing second overall. Jochbed Ibrahim rounded off TIG’s medal tally with a bronze.
Coach Tony Asuquo, who works with both clubs, hailed the performances and called for more investment in gymnastics development in Nigeria.
“There is a wealth of untapped talent in Nigeria,” he said.
“With increased funding, improved facilities, and more exposure, our gymnasts can compete and win on the world stage.”
The Centurion Club Championship is one of Southern Africa’s largest youth gymnastics events, providing a vital platform for athletes to gain international experience.
With promising results from clubs like NLNG RA and TIG International, Nigeria’s gymnastics community is steadily building momentum toward future continental and global competitions, including the African Games and the Olympic Games.