Young South African gymnasts take part in the annual Region 5 competition, showcasing skills across multiple disciplines and bringing home several gold medals.
Windhoek, Namibia (10 December 2025) – Team South Africa is geared up for an exciting week in Windhoek, Namibia, where the annual Region 5 Gymnastics competition is currently underway until the 12th of December.
The event brings together the region’s rising gymnastic stars in a showcase of talent, unity and healthy rivalry.
This year’s competition will feature a broad mix of disciplines, ranging from Rhythmic Gymnastics to Trampoline, Double Mini-Trampoline (DMT), Tumbling, Men’s and Women’s Artistic Gymnastics, as well as Parkour and Gym for All (GFA). While South Africa won’t be competing in Parkour or GFA this time around, the country is sending a strong and ambitious squad for all other codes.
Gymnastics South Africa President Adele Heine emphasised the enormous value the event holds for young athletes beginning their international journeys.
“For South Africa, Region 5 remains an important competition on the pathway for young gymnasts, as the event plays a developmental and competitive role. It is often the first major international event where young gymnasts compete beyond national borders, gain exposure to international standards, and learn to perform under pressure, all essential steps on the pathway to further international events.”
Team coordinator Caron Henry reflected on what the event represents for athletes and officials alike.
“Every year, Region 5 reminds us why we do what we do. Watching our young gymnasts step onto an international floor for the first time is incredibly moving, and I’m so proud of the hard work they’ve put in to earn their place on this team.”
It doesn’t end there! South Africa’s influence at the Games extends beyond the mat. With a local representative serving on the Region 5 Organising Committee, the country continues to play an important leadership role in shaping key decisions around technical standards, athlete welfare and event delivery.
As the Region 5 competition unfolds, Team South Africa is already making waves across multiple disciplines. In rhythmic gymnastics, the pre-junior group delivered an exceptional performance, with Grace Aufrichtig, Ilana De Jager, Holly Mayer, and Vida Gomes claiming gold in the all-around pre-junior group category. Individually, De Jager and Gomes continued their impressive form, taking first and second place in the pre-junior all-around competition. Meanwhile, in the elite rhythmic group, Chrissy George, Faith Roodt, Misa van Niekerk, Nomthandazo Madela, and Skyler Herbst dominated the field to secure gold, demonstrating the depth and talent of South Africa’s young gymnasts on the regional stage.
Behind the scenes, a wide network of coaches, judges, parents, volunteers and clubs has been instrumental in preparing the gymnasts for competition. Gymnastics South Africa expressed deep appreciation for this support system, which remains central to the country’s ongoing success in the Region 5 arena.
Team SA is competing with pride and continuing the legacy that has defined South African gymnastics for years.
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