Young trampolinists stepping up

MEDAL WINNERS: Back, from left, Capria Tamatea, James van Aswegen and Lily Arnold. Front, from left, Tyler Sheldrake, Porsha Hillman, Emmie Fitzharris-Stevens and Bella Campbell-Reidy. Picture by Liam Clayton

TRAMPOLINING

GISBORNE trampolinists had one final chance to compete before the upcoming nationals in July.

The Midland champs held in Rotorua was also a chance for the younger club members to get their first experience in an out-of-town competition.

The club travelled with 24 athletes, earning 14 medals over the weekend. Coach Doug Callahan said he was very proud of how they performed.

“Now they know what to expect. . . although they didn’t medal, they’re up in the top 10.”

He said he was excited for the next generation of athletes, who are already making their mark on their respective divisions.

Eight-and-under’s Porsha Hillman and 10-and-under’s Bella Campbell-Reidy have already made an impression on Callahan.

He said both athletes have the potential to “go a long

way” in the sport, with Hillman an all-rounder with a “big future” and Campbell-Reidy a “really dedicated” athlete who is always ready to give it her all.

Hillman’s performance at the recent Midland Champs would have seen her earn first place in the 11-12-year-old division, impressing everyone with her fast and flowing passes.

This year the club has qualified 14 athletes for nationals, one of the biggest teams in years.

Porsha Hillman, gold; Emmie Fitzharris-Stevens, silver. Tyler Sheldrake, gold.

Isilleli Kamoto, gold.

James van Aswegen, bronze.

Lily Arnold, silver.

Emmie Fitzharris-Stevens, gold. Tyler Sheldrake, gold.

Isilleli Kamoto, silver. James Van Aswegen, gold.

Charlie Holdsworth, bronze.

Lily Arnold, silver.

Porsha Hillman, gold.

Bella Campbell-Reidy, gold.

Capria Tamatea, bronze.