MEIRIONNYDD gymnasts have enjoyed a new year’s trip to Shropshire to make use of an Olympic-standard facility.

On Saturday 2 January, 17 youngsters along with their parents and four coaches from Cader Idris Gymnastics Club, Dolgellau, travelled to the National Sports Centre at Lilleshall, home to British Gymnastics and their Olympic stars.

Whilst the world-class athletes were having their Christmas break, Cader Idris Gymnastics Club was able to make use of their superb facilities.

This included the opportunity to train on an Olympic-sized beam and asymmetrical bars, ground level trampoline and tumble track that all allowed dismounts to be performed into their vast foam pit.

All gymnasts who took part in this day away had raised over £50 each in the clubs latest fund-raiser to help the club purchase new equipment.

The children and coaches then finished off their special day with team races in the foam pit.

Head coach Lucinda Gibson said: “Everyone enjoyed the experience so much that plans are already happening for another visit to Lilleshall in the summer time.

“In the mean time the clubs gymnasts are working hard on their latest award badges, preparing for an upcoming competition in March and then followed by a club display in May.”

“The club currently runs recreational gymnastic sessions in Barmouth Leisure Centre on a Tuesday and Ysgol Y Gader on a Monday, Thursday and Friday.

The is currently a waiting list but with numerous coaches going on their coaching courses over the next few months, it not unlikely that the club will welcoming new candidates soon.

For further information please contact head coach [email protected] or Cader Idris Gymnastics Club on Facebook.