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Carlisle Gymnastics
Club was formed in 1984 with the aim of promoting the development
of all forms of gymnastics.
The first training
sessions were held in Trinity School, the Sands Leisure Centre
and the former Sports Centre in Strand Road, Carlisle. Following
several years of expansion and consolidation it was found that
being spread ove more than one location was proving difficult
both for coaches and gymnasts. We then moved into Newlaithes
School, which we quickly outgrew in terms of size and training
times available. A major search was made for new premises and
after much negotiation, and agreement was signed for the use
of the YMCA in Fisher Street. The club started sessions there
in September 1989.
In August 1997,
we moved to our existing premises in Thomas Street, Denton Holme,
Carlisle. Once again, due to expansion and the need for more
equipment we have outgrown our Thomas Street premises and would
ideally like to move to larger premises.
Over the years,
the club has purchased and gradually replaced most of its original
equipment that was life expired; the vaulting horse was replaced
in 1994 and in 1995 the asymmetric bars - both with the help
of a Royal Mail Sports Award and fundraising by club members.
To develop further,
the club needs to move to larger premises. A new sprung floor
and a set of competition asymmetric bars HAVE now been aquired,
also new balance beams, Members are in the process of sourcing
funds and suitable locations although these will not be immediately
forthcoming due to a severe lack of funding.
In 1995 the first
club members were selected to represent the North of England
Region at competitions. Since this time over 30 members have
represented the Region and participated in National competitions,
all proving to be very successful.
Club membership
is open to girls and boys of school age. Beginners' sessions
are held on Wednesdays and Fridays, with advanced groups meeting
on all days of the week. We are also hoping to cater for pre-school
children, when larger premises are available. At the present
time we have 130 members.
All of our coaches
are fully qualified, having sat the British Amateur Gymnastics
Association examinations. Several of our coaches are also qualified
judges. The Senior Club Coach is Maria Sinclair.
Participation is
a regular feature of the club and gymnasts can expect to be entered
into both County and Regional competitions. In addition the club
also holds its own Annual Club Competition. |