Parents are 'truly proud' of amazing teenage gymnast who made her name at Harrogate Gymnastics

Parents of a teenage gymnast who has trained at Harrogate Gymnastics for the past decade and has now won a scholarship to study and compete in Alaska say they are “truly proud” of her amazing achievement.

Richard and Hayley Gibson say, as well as talent, it’s the sheer determination to succeed of their 19-year-old daughter Georgina which has earned her a multi-year athletic scholarship to the University of Alaska Anchorage in the United States, where she will study Kinesiology, the science of human movement, exercise and physical performance, while continuing her gymnastics career.

“We are truly proud of what Georgina has achieved,” they said.

"Although we will miss her, we are so excited for what lies ahead.

"Her journey in gymnastics, like so many, has been a mixture of cheers and tears but the one constant has been her determination to succeed.

“We knew selection would be tough and that very few places would be available for British gymnasts, but Georgina simply never gave up.”

She competes in Women’s Artistic Gymnastics and has competed at the British Championships twice and the English Championships five times.

She currently trains 20 hours a week and is coached by Chloe Carey at Harrogate Gymnastics is based at The Zone at Hornbeam Park in Harrogate.

“I feel so honoured to receive a full scholarship to compete in the sport I have loved since I was five,” said Georgina.

"Some people might feel nervous about moving to the other side of the world, especially somewhere as cold as Alaska, but there is no place I would rather choose.

"It feels like the perfect fit, not only because of the scenery, but because of the culture of the gymnastics team and the university’s academic reputation.

“I will always be grateful for everything Harrogate Gymnastics has given me."

Georgina, who is from Thorner, will leave for the USA this weekend to begin the next chapter of her journey after ten great years at Harrogate Gymnastics.

Founded by Chloe Carey, Harrogate Gymnastics was created to give children and young people of different ages, abilities and confidence levels the chance to enjoy gymnastics, build confidence and develop a passion for the sport.

The club offers recreational classes, preschool classes, family free play, holiday activities, parties and adult gymnastics, alongside competitive pathways through Harrogate Gymnastics Club.

“We are incredibly proud of Georgina,” said Chloe Carey.

"To see a gymnast who has trained with us for 10 years preparing to continue her gymnastics career in Alaska is something the whole club can celebrate.

"This scholarship is a fantastic achievement and reflects years of hard work, commitment and passion for the sport."