BREAKING: In a stunning achievement, Nathan Swanepoel from Scotts Valley has secured a silver medal for Team USA at the 31st Fédération Internationale de Gymnastique (FIG) World Age Group Competitions in Pamplona, Spain. This marks a significant milestone for Swanepoel, as it is his first international competition, and he earned the medal in the Men’s Double-Mini Trampoline for athletes aged 17 to 21.
Competing against gymnasts from 46 countries, Swanepoel achieved a remarkable score of 25.100 in the finals, showcasing his talent on a global stage. His performance has generated excitement and pride within the gymnastics community, particularly for his home state of California.
“I am beyond happy with how my first World Age Group Competition went,” Swanepoel expressed in an emotional Instagram post. “Placed second in prelims and secured a second place medal in finals. I have so much gratitude for the opportunity to compete in Spain for the U.S., and I am very thankful for the support from all of my coaches and medical staff. Could not have asked for a better week. Y gracias España.”
The gold medal was claimed by Canada’s Jeremy Meyer with a score of 25.200, while Australia’s River Mallam took home the bronze with a score of 24.900. These results highlight the competitive nature of the event and the high level of skill displayed by the athletes.
Taj Rodriguez Gleitsman, a competitor from Santa Cruz and an Aptos High alum, also participated in the championships. Representing the University of Utah, Gleitsman competed in three events, finishing 19th out of 87 athletes in the Individual Men’s Trampoline prelims, where the top eight advanced to the finals. He partnered with Changamire Anderson in the Men’s Synchronized Pair Trampoline, placing 15th out of 33 teams in the preliminaries, and also competed in the Individual Men’s Double-Mini Trampoline, where he finished 41st.
This event not only showcases the athletic prowess of young gymnasts but also underscores the importance of international competitions in fostering sportsmanship and camaraderie among nations. The impact of these competitions resonates beyond medals, fostering relationships and experiences that athletes will carry throughout their careers.
As the gymnastics world continues to celebrate these accomplishments, all eyes will be on future competitions to see how these young talents progress and represent their countries. Stay tuned for updates on their journeys and more developments from the FIG World Age Group Competitions.
