UPDATE: Scotts Valley’s Nathan Swanepoel has just made headlines by winning a silver medal for Team USA at the 31st Fédération Internationale de Gymnastique (FIG) World Age Group Competitions, held in the Navarra Arena in Pamplona, Spain, on Sunday. In his first international competition, Swanepoel secured a remarkable score of 25.100 in the Men’s Double-Mini Trampoline for athletes aged 17 to 21.
This victory is significant not only for Swanepoel but also for the entire gymnastics community, as it showcases his talent on a global platform. Athletes from 46 countries participated in this prestigious event, making his achievement even more noteworthy. “I am beyond happy with how my first World Age Group Competition went,” Swanepoel expressed on Instagram. “I 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.”
In a competitive field, Canada’s Jeremy Meyer took home the gold with a score of 25.200, while Australia’s River Mallam earned bronze with 24.900. This event highlights the rising stars in gymnastics and their exceptional skills.
Swanepoel, currently training at North Valley Gymnastics in Phoenix and attending Arizona State University, began his gymnastics journey with coach Vernon Vargas at Vargas Academy of Gymnastics back in 2013. His dedication and hard work have clearly paid off, marking a bright future ahead.
Meanwhile, fellow gymnast Taj Rodriguez Gleitsman from Santa Cruz, an Aptos High alum, also represented the U.S. in three events. Competing as a student at the University of Utah, Gleitsman finished 19th out of 87 athletes in the Individual Men’s Trampoline prelims. The top eight advanced to the finals. Additionally, he teamed up with Changamire Anderson in the Men’s Synchronized Pair Trampoline, where they placed 15th out of 33 teams in the prelims. Gleitsman also placed 41st in the Individual Men’s Double-Mini Trampoline.
This thrilling competition not only underscores the talent of American gymnasts but also elevates the profile of the sport globally. As fans and supporters celebrate these achievements, all eyes will be on Swanepoel and his future endeavors in gymnastics.
Stay tuned for more updates as this story develops, and follow the journey of these remarkable athletes as they continue to strive for excellence on the international stage.
