URGENT UPDATE: Nathan Swanepoel has just clinched a silver medal for Team USA at the 31st Fédération Internationale de Gymnastique (FIG) World Age Group Competitions in Pamplona, Spain, marking a remarkable achievement in his first international competition. Competing in the Men’s Double-Mini Trampoline for the 17 to 21-year-old category, Swanepoel secured silver with an impressive final score of 25.100 on Sunday.
This competition saw gymnastics athletes from 46 countries battle for medals, highlighting the global scale of the event. Swanepoel expressed his joy on Instagram, stating, “I am beyond happy with how my first World Age Group Competition went. Placed second in prelims and secured a second place medal in finals. I have so much gratitude for the opportunity to compete in Spain for the U.S., and I am very thankful for the support from all of my coaches and medical staff. Could not have asked for a better week. Y gracias España.”
In a tightly contested event, Canada’s Jeremy Meyer took home gold with a score of 25.200, while Australia’s River Mallam earned bronze with 24.900. The stakes were high as gymnasts showcased their skills on an international platform.
Swanepoel, who trains at North Valley Gymnastics in Phoenix and attends Arizona State University, began his gymnastics journey with Vernon Vargas at Vargas Academy in 2013. His success comes at a time when the gymnastics community is celebrating young talent on the world stage.
Also representing the U.S. was Taj Rodriguez Gleitsman from Santa Cruz, who competed in three events. The Aptos High alum finished 19th out of 87 athletes in the Individual Men’s Trampoline prelims, while the top eight advanced to the finals. He teamed up with Changamire Anderson in the Men’s Synchronized Pair Trampoline, where they placed 15th out of 33 teams in the prelims. Gleitsman also placed 41st in the Individual Men’s Double-Mini Trampoline.
The FIG World Age Group Competitions serves as a crucial platform for young gymnasts to gain international experience and showcase their talents. With Swanepoel’s outstanding performance, all eyes are now on the rising star as he continues his journey in gymnastics.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story and the future competitions for these talented athletes. The gymnastics world eagerly anticipates what’s next for Nathan Swanepoel and his fellow competitors.
