NGF selects trio for African champs

The Namibian Gymnastics Federation (NGF) has selected three gymnasts to represent the country at the African Rhythmic Gymnastics Championship in Cairo, Egypt, from 2 to 3 May.The three young talents – Joy Kabooy from Walvis Bay Gymnastics Club, and Emilia Ekandjo and Peya Kashaka of Windhoek Rhythmic Club – were selected after national trials at Olympia’s Windhoek Rhythmic Club last weekend.This trio is coincidentally the same that represented the country at last year’s African Rhythmic Gymnastics Championships held in Kigali, Rwanda.They are set to be accompanied by coach Roumi Kostin, alongside FIG-certified judge Wietsa Snyman.The NGF also hosted trials for the junior team to represent the country at the Junior World Championships in Sofia, Bulgaria, from 18 to 22 June. This team will be finalised later this week.Reflecting on the competition, Namibian Rhythmic chairperson Britt Adonis-Byl said it revealed that the sport is well on its way and has improved its standard.“We are now on par with [the International Gymnastics Federation (FIG)] rules and regulations,” she said.She indicated that the rhythmic section’s main focus is to get gymnasts out onto the competition floor to gain as much exposure as possible.Testament to this is the participation of six gymnasts in the upcoming illustrious International Gymnastics Tournament, where they are invited alongside Zimbabwe to compete from 15 to 16 April in Angola.FIG-certified judge Adonis-Byl will be the head of delegation, alongside coach Wietsa Snyman. They will be accompanying Infinity Rhythmic Gymnastics’ Aleandra van Rooi and Windhoek Rhythmic Club’s Karin Hamunyela, Emilia Ekandjo, Peya Kashaka, Kenandjo Mupia and Taimi Nanyanga.“It’s Angola’s celebration of 50 years/ of independence, and they are having an international sports event as a commemoration. We will depart on Sunday and will have a training day on Monday.“This is good exposure and a great opportunity to compete amongst our peers in Africa. We want to be able to measure ourselves against the African giants of rhythmic gymnastics like Egypt and South Africa,” she said.– mariud@nsh.com.na

NGF selects trio for African champs

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Namibian Sun 2025-04-15

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NGF selects trio for African champs

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Namibian Sun 2025-04-15

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