Namixx Gymnastics Club members show off medals they won in Croydon

THE smiles were twice as broad after youngsters from Namixx Gymnastics Club returned home from a “double trouble twin piece” competition recently clutching plenty of medals.

Squads made up of emerging talents from across Camden, Islington and Westminster shone in the spotlight as they showcased their skills on the beam, bars, floor and vault.

The event, which was held at Coombe Wood School in Croydon by Future Gymnastics Club, came with an unusual twist. Gymnasts could only enter in teams of two, with the competition giving them the chance to compete on their favourite pieces of equipment with a bestie – taking all the pressure off competing individually. Scores were then added together and averaged to see which determined duo would place on the podium.

Raquel Lawal, who runs Namixx with her sister Bianca, said she was “super proud” of her squads, especially as some of them were competing on the apparatuses for the first-ever time.

She said: “Watching the gymnasts take on beam and bars for the first time was incredibly inspiring. They showed courage, discipline, and the incredible spirit of teamwork that defines our club. They all made the club super proud with their poise, skill, and determination.”

Coaches, parents and supporters from Namixx had every reason to be blown away after watching their young athletes rise to the occasion in what was their final outing of the year.

Delivering confident routines and personal best performances, the pairings of Freyja Wang & Eliana Alidor, Leona Armuad & Tilly Arnopp, Isabella Alidor & Polly-Pearl Narcisse, Nellie O’Leary & Ella-Jean Smith, and Emelia Willian & Jonelle Adams all struck gold.

Mathew Bush and Eddie Szalwinski (in dark blue) on the podium

There were also big celebrations for Keyanna White & Olivia Tono, Mathew Bush & Eddie Szalwinski, and Eleanor Friday & Gabriana Stewart-Breary who all scooped silver, while Josephine Svartz Nichols & Daisy O’Brien and Leila Halliday & Heidi Brennan bagged bronzes.

Raquel certainly knows a thing or two about gymnastics. The 34-year-old has been involved in the sport for almost three decades, and used to compete – and regularly win medals for – Camden Gymnastics Club. She now coaches weekly sessions in Tufnell Park and Holloway.

Praising the format of the event in south London, which was held just before Halloween, Raquel added: “Twin piece competitions are quite uncommon, which made the day even more fun. It was really great seeing all the gymnasts supporting each other and working together instead of competing against one another.

“Once again, I want to say congratulations to the Namixx team on their outstanding achievements, and for continuing to make our community proud and displaying sporting excellence.”