For the first time since London, members of the WAIS
gymnastics squad will this Friday compete at the inaugural Chetkovich Cup at
Challenge Stadium in Perth.
The first of its kind, the Chetkovich Cup is a new and
innovative competition that will involve all seven disciplines of gymnastics
including Women’s and Men’s; Artistic, Rhythmic, Trampoline, Cheerleading and
Acrobatic gymnastics, with all teams competing for the Cup named in honour of
Western Australian gymnastics coaching and administrative great, Liz Chetkovich.
The event was suggested by Gymnastics Western Australia’s
Vice President Rick Elkington with the hope that it will bring in more
recognition and financial support for the sport.
The competition will involve performances from WAIS
Olympians Lauren Mitchell, Emily Little, Janine Murray and Olivia Vivian,
whilst also featuring the next generation of WAIS gymnasts; Paige James,
Francheska Fusha and Molly McKenzie.
2010 World Champion Lauren Mitchell is looking forward to competition,
in what will be her first competitive floor routine since her finals
performance in London.
"I’m really excited to be competing as it will be the first
time since London,” she said. "Although my difficulty level might not be as
high, it’s a good chance to get back into it.”
2008 Beijing Olympian and current Bars national champion
Olivia Vivian said the new competition would be a fantastic opportunity for
gymnastics to showcase the various disciplines of the sport.
"It’s very rare that you get a good gymnastics competition
hosted here in Perth, so I think the Chetkovich Cup will be a great opportunity
for the public to see the entertaining side of gymnastics, including the
disciplines that aren’t often acknowledged,” she said.
A special guest judging panel will also include 2012
Olympians Kim Mickle (javelin), Jesse Phillips (kayaking) and Ben Cureton
(rowing) alongside 2012 Paralympic Games silver medallist Clare Nott
(wheelchair basketball), who will be deliberating on a special award to be
presented on the night.
The Chetkovich Cup takes place this Friday, October 26that Challenge Stadium, from 7pm with tickets available at the door or online
through Ticketmaster.
- Olivia Vivian
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