Tshwane to host the 12th African Gymnastics Championships
The City of Tshwane is not only home to high profile sports such as Rugby and Cricket, but also caters to a rich diversity of athletic competitions. Which from the 25th of March to the 4th of April 2014 will include a major international gymnastics event in the form of the 12th African Gymnastics Championships .
This biennial event is to be held at the University of Pretoria and between 10 and 16 African nations are expected to participate as there are 16 members of the Union Africaine de Gymnastique, the organisation under whose banner the event sponsor (Algrodex) is operating. It is also expected that between 200 and 300 gymnasts and 400 to 500 coaches officials and volunteers will be in attendance.
The event is hosted by the South African Gymnastics Federation (SAGF), which today embodies the continuation of organised South African gymnastics bodies, the first of which was founded in 1876.
The championships include events in both Artistic- and Rhythmic- gymnastics. Artistic gymnastics is a form of the discipline that has gymnasts perform routines using apparatus, with less emphasis on vaulting. The routines last between 30 and 90 seconds.
Rhythmic gymnastics, on the other hand, combines elements of ballet, gymnastics and dance by individuals or teams that can include one, two or no apparatus. An apparatus can be a club, a hoop, ball, ribbon or rope.
Five specific gymnastic disciplines will be represented at the championships: aerobic gymnastics, men’s and women’s artistic gymnastics, rhythmic gymnastics and trampoline gymnastics.
As the championships get underway, ShowMe Pretoria will report with photos and info regarding the events. We are excited to see the influx of tourists and competitors into our city as this not only brings about more support for local businesses and guest lodges, but is also great news for casual vendors and street artists.
Please keep an eye on our sporting events page for more.