Rising stars gear up for Serbian test
Artistic gymnastics
Crete Gymnastics Club has fielded three of its rising stars at the prestigious annual Memorial Laza Krstic and Marica Dželatovic tournament, taking place in Novi Sad, Serbia, from today until Sunday.The event honours Laza Krstic (1939 to 2004) and Marica Dželatovic (1928 to 1998), veteran Serbian coaches from the Sokolsko društvo Vojvodina club. The pair trained multiple national-team gymnasts and helped build one of Serbia’s most successful artistic gymnastics programmes.
Crete’s contingent left yesterday and comprises gymnasts Aryanna Silver Moodley (11), Milan Schutte (10) and Otja Katjerungu (10), who are accompanied by coach Nadine Jaeger.
The gymnasts will compete tomorrow, making their international debut as they join 39 participants from 16 countries.
Participating nations
Competing nations include hosts Serbia, South Africa, Greece, Denmark, the United Arab Emirates, Slovenia, Sweden, Bulgaria, Croatia, Switzerland, North Macedonia, Romania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Azerbaijan and Kazakhstan.
Reflecting on the trip ahead of their departure, coach Jaeger expressed excitement about the youngsters making their first international appearance.
“Young gymnasts don’t have many opportunities to participate on the international stage. This tournament is a wonderful chance for them to kickstart their budding careers,” she said.
Jaeger added that preparations have been ongoing for several years, with a particular push over the last two seasons.
“I believe the gymnasts are ready. They each have their own strengths, and I can’t wait for them to showcase their talents to the world,” she said.
She emphasised that the main goal is exposure: gaining confidence, learning from international peers and appreciating the sport from a broader perspective.
“I want them to take it all in and have fun. They need to become competition confident and competition fit, as it will greatly improve their gymnastics. We also hope to secure sponsors in future so they can take part in more international events,” she said.
Gymnasts’ thoughts
Looking ahead to the Serbian test, Moodley could not hide her excitement. “I have been preparing by going to gymnastics practice for years now. I’m looking forward to learning from other gymnasts and becoming a better gymnast in the future.”
Schutte shared similar enthusiasm, finally realising her dream of competing internationally after watching older gymnasts do so for years.
“I always wanted to go overseas and compete. I have spent countless hours training my routines and skills. I am looking forward to showcasing my abilities against other countries,” she said.
Katjerungu is equally eager for the opportunity. “I trained every day and tried my best to sharpen my skills. I can’t wait to meet gymnasts from different countries,” she said.
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