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Gold and 2 Bronze at King Edmund International

The King Edmund International is a respected, high quality competition attracting entries from the top acro clubs in the UK and entries from Europe and beyond. It was also the first event for 9 months for the clubs FIG squad, all of whom were in new partnerships, many also competing at their particular level for the first time. In addition, for this event, expectations were tempered by the fact that its close proximity to the British Championships meant that the squad were still in build-up for the latter competition and had not yet ‘peaked.’

It was clear from the start that the standard was going to be high. In the large and very competitive 11-16 Age Group, all 3 Oxford Trio’s quickly realised what it means to compete amongst the best in the country. First Routine performances that, on the whole, would have set them up for podium finishes regionally, were only good enough to secure middle order position. Nerves had undoubtedly played a part in the first round and all 3 Trio’s subsequently ‘dug deep’ for their second routine (Balance). To their credit, everyone improved their standings and Emily, Freya and Grace were able to secure a place in the Final. The girls went on to give a strong performance, ultimately finishing a very commendable 6th. To put this into context, just 0.85 separated them from the 1st place Trio.

In the Junior (13-19) WG category, Gabby, Cossi and Nina had a tough start to the day with a disappointing Balance Routine, but impressively, shut the disappointment out of their minds to perform strongly in their Dynamic and Combined routines, more than holding their own against the other competitors to finish with the Bronze medal.

In the Junior (12-18) Pairs, Becca and Sophie had a great competition and despite some wobbles in the warm-up area and some inexplicably harsh marks for their Combined Routine, led their group throughout both days, deservedly finishing in first place to take the Gold medal!

Nerves were also self evident as Oxfords first Senior Trio of Bex, Sophie and Siobhan performed their 3 routines against the current World Cup winning Trio from Heathrow and a seasoned South Tyneside partnership. Highlight of the competition for them was their strong Dynamic routine, which delighted everyone. Satisfactory, if wobbly, Balance and Combined performances rounded off a good first competition for them, with the added bonus of a Bronze medal.

Well done to all of the squad and particularly our medal winners! Everyone learned a lot from this high quality competition and gained valuable experience, which will stand them in good stead as we approach the British Championships!