Teen Yorkshire gymnast who is enjoying a ‘crazy year’ owes it all to Harrogate Gymnastics

A talented 13-year-old Harrogate gymnast has been chosen to train at a prestigious GB five-day development camp this week.

The incredible Andi-Mae Bendelow, who has progressed from preschool classes at Harrogate Gymnastics to competing at UK level, has been selected as a full GB Development Squad member in Women’s Artistic Gymnastics following an outstanding competition season.

Her selection for the camp, which runs this week until Friday, is a significant achievement, with the British Gymnastics pathway designed to support some of the country’s most talented young gymnasts as they develop in the sport.

“This year has been incredible,” said Andi-Mae.

"Winning a medal at the English Championships and getting my all-around score was a complete surprise but finding out a few weeks later that I would be competing at the British Championships in Liverpool was a dream come true.

“After that, I went back to the gym and found out I had been invited to join the English squad and attend a GB Development Squad trial at Lilleshall, which felt crazy."

Andi-Mae has trained at Harrogate Gymnastics at The Zone at Hornbeam Park since preschool, progressing from her very first classes through the club’s pathway to national competition.

Her recent achievements include finishing second on beam at the English Championships in Telford in February, as well as placing seventh overall from the top 60 gymnasts in England.

This secured her a place at the British Championships at the M&S Bank Arena Liverpool in March, where her performance led to selection for the England Squad and a trial for the GB Development Squad.

Andi-Mae currently trains 20 hours a week and is coached by Chloe Carey, founder of Harrogate Gymnastics.

“We are incredibly proud of Andi-Mae,” said Chloe.

"To see her progress all the way from preschool classes to national competitions and the GB Development Squad selection is really special.”

Andi-Mae’s parents, Sarah King and Steve Bendelow, said: “As a family we are so incredibly proud of everything Andi-Mae has achieved so far.

"The consistent support, dedication and hard work from Andi-Mae and all her coaches have allowed her to thrive.”