Bermuda’s gymnasts did the island proud by clinching seven medals at the second edition of the Carifta Gymnastics Championships in Couva, Trinidad & Tobago, over the weekend.

The 15 gymnasts under the mentorship of Becky Wentling and Frederick Nicolas, went head-to-head against competitors from Bahamas, Curaçao, Barbados, Cayman Islands, Jamaica and the host nation.

Madeline Pritchard, Bermuda’s most successful gymnast at the two-day event, beat the competition by becoming the Level 3 vault champion in the 7-9 age group, achieving an impressive score of 9.825.

Not stopping there, Pritchard also secured third place on the uneven bars with a score of 8.675. The eight-year-old secured her third bronze on the floor with a score of 9.3 and rounded off with another third-place finish in the all-round competition.

Nick and Karen Pritchard, Madeline’s parents, expressed pride in their daughter’s achievements.

“We are extremely proud of Maddie’s hard work and preparation for the Carifta Gymnastics Championships,” Karen Pritchard said. “We see Maddie’s dedication every day and to watch her produce it on the international stage was an absolute joy.

“Special thanks goes to coaches Becky Wentling and Fred Nicholas. We are thrilled with the new coaching set-up and very confident they will bring further success to gymnastics in Bermuda.”

Tyla Foote, also competing at Level 3, earned a commendable third on the vault in the 7-9 with a score of 9.7. Samantha Tolosa, competing at Level 3 in the 10-12, secured bronze all-around with a remarkable score of 37.175.

In the Level 4 session, Nea Fosker shone brightly, securing second place on the floor in the 7-10, with an outstanding score of 9.45.

There were honourable mentions for Isabella Daniels (Level 4), Ty-Leah Trott (Level 3), Raelyn Robinson (Level 3), Courtney Burgess (Level 3), Isobel Stones (Level 4), Eve Wright (Level 6), Jodie Denton (level 2), Evelyn Howarth (Level 2) and Sadie Hocking (level 4).

The Gymnastics Federation of Bermuda was thrilled with the team’s hard work and dedication, with Wentling delighted with the way team performed in Trinidad.

“Our Bermuda athletes spent months working towards their Carifta goals,” Wentling said.

“Through perseverance and some adversity they stepped up and gave it their all. I couldn’t be happier with our results. Congratulations to the Bermuda Carifta Gymnastics Championships for doing such a great job.”

Nicholas was impressed by the adaptability shown by the team amid the challenges they faced.

“This weekend was truly a test of our resilience as we managed our little athletes through a very challenging competition,” he said.

“For some of our Junior Olympic Level 3 athletes, it was their first international meet, which meant stepping far out of their comfort zones. Despite these hurdles, I am incredibly proud of everyone who participated and gave their best.

“The difficult travel itineraries we faced on Thursday added an extra layer of complexity, but our athletes rose to the occasion with determination and grace.

“I’m confident that this experience has only made them stronger and more prepared for the next Carifta. Let’s aim for a top three all-around finish next time.”

Julia Bortoli, GFB president, commended athletes and their parents for their contribution to the team’s success.

“We are absolutely delighted with the gymnasts remarkable achievements and the spirit they demonstrated throughout the competition,” Bortoli said.

“It was truly inspiring to see both parents and athletes come together as a cohesive team, offering unwavering support to one another.

“This sense of unity and camaraderie played a significant role in making the competition an amazing and memorable experience for everyone involved.

“Once again, congratulations to our gymnasts for their outstanding performances, and a heartfelt thank you to the parents and supporters who contributed to this fantastic event.

“Let's continue to build on this success and strive for even greater accomplishments in the future.”