AMHERST – The first step to a long season of competitive gymnastics starts Friday in Charlottetown for the Aerials Gymnastics Club.
“You always have those gymnasts who are going to be surprised when they get there but, for the most part, I think everybody is on track to where they should be at this time of year,” said Michelle Landry, Aerials coach.
Landry said the girls are nervous heading into the competition.
“Some skills they can normally do on a regular basis, suddenly they were panicking about a little bit,” she added. “But pre-meet jitters are normal.”
It’s the first time ever competing for four of the gymnasts.
“They’re a little nervous but they’re ready.”
What about the veterans?
“Ideally you want you’re gymnasts to peak at the provincials and it’s still early in the season, so they’re not peaking just yet,” said Landry.
It’s the start of Kyrsten Landry’s last season as a competitive gymnast. She is the only Aerials athlete competing in the Open 3 Division.
“It feels awful knowing it’s my last year,” said Landry. “But my goal is to win and do the best I can.”
Asked how Open 2 athletes Kirsten Mason and Felicia Landry are going to do at their first competition, Michelle said, “Remember how I told you how some people might get a surprise this weekend?”
Despite their coaches doubts as to their early-season commitment, both girls said they are confident they will do well in Charlottetown.
The competition runs until Sunday.
dmathieson@amherstdaily.com
