The gymnastics competition ranked as one of the best in West Africa is expected to bring together athletes from schools and clubs, as organisers seek to expand participation and improve opportunities for young gymnasts.
The third edition of the GYMFEST Championship will take place on 7 November at The Dome, Freedom Way, Lekki Phase 1, Lagos State, with organisers seeking to attract more young athletes, schools, and gymnastics clubs.
According to the organisers, the first two editions attracted more than 400 athletes from over 20 schools and involved more than 60 certified coaches. They also reported that the competitions drew over 2,000 spectators and were supported by more than 20 volunteers, with no incidents recorded.
Yoyin Akpose, co-convener of the championship and founder of Tee Tumblers Gymnastics Club, said the competition was created to help address the limited opportunities available to young Nigerians interested in gymnastics.
“Every child should have the opportunity to participate in gymnastics. There is so much talent in Nigeria that we are not even close to harnessing, and we need to create more awareness and opportunities for these children to thrive,” she said.
Ms Akpose said the organisers hoped to establish structures and standards that would enable Nigerian gymnasts to compete at international events.
“The dream is to create the right structure and standards for gymnastics in Nigeria, so that our young gymnasts can compete internationally and Nigeria can produce more athletes capable of representing the country on the world stage,” she said.
Schools, clubs and coaches have been invited to register gymnasts for this year’s competition, while members of the public can attend as spectators.
The organisers said participating gymnasts would pay a ₦20,000 registration fee, while spectator tickets would cost ₦5,000. Sponsorship opportunities are also available to companies interested in supporting the event.
Sarah Boulos, co-convener of GYMFEST and founder of SPAN, said the competition combines sport and the arts to promote discipline and confidence among young people.
“Through dedication, arts, and athletics, we build discipline and international confidence. Every partner who joins us becomes part of an enduring legacy,” she said.
The organisers said previous editions of the championship received media coverage, and more is expected this year.
This year’s edition is sponsored by ProvidusUnity Bank, with Leadway Assurance, Indomie, Studio 24 and YD Company also supporting the event.
The championship will also give vendors space to showcase their products and services to attendees.
GYMFEST is organised to provide young gymnasts with opportunities to compete and develop their skills. Its third edition comes as organisers work to widen participation in the sport and create pathways for young athletes to progress to higher levels of competition.
