BREAKING: Scotts Valley’s Nathan Swanepoel has just secured a silver medal for Team USA at the FIG World Age Group Competitions, held at the Navarra Arena in Pamplona, Spain, on Sunday. This marks Swanepoel’s first international competition, where he triumphed in the Men’s Double-Mini Trampoline for the 17 to 21-year-old category with an impressive score of 25.100.
The competition featured talented athletes from 46 countries, underscoring the significance of Swanepoel’s achievement. “I am beyond happy with how my first World Age Group Competition went,” he shared on Instagram. “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 the same event, Canada’s Jeremy Meyer clinched the gold medal with a score of 25.200, while Australia’s River Mallam took home bronze with 24.900. This podium finish showcases the high level of competition and the dedication of these young athletes.
Swanepoel, who trains at North Valley Gymnastics in Phoenix and attends Arizona State University, began his gymnastics journey in 2013 under coach Vernon Vargas at Vargas Academy of Gymnastics. His success is not only a personal victory but also a proud moment for his community.
Additionally, fellow gymnast Taj Rodriguez Gleitsman, a student from the University of Utah and an Aptos High alum, also participated in the championships. He competed in three events, finishing 19th out of 87 in the Individual Men’s Trampoline prelims. The top eight athletes advanced to the finals. Gleitsman partnered with Changamire Anderson in the Men’s Synchronized Pair Trampoline, where they placed 15th out of 33 teams in the prelims. He also finished 41st in the Individual Men’s Double-Mini Trampoline.
This event shines a spotlight on emerging gymnastics talent and their extraordinary achievements on an international stage. As the gymnastics community celebrates these accomplishments, fans are eager to follow the journeys of these athletes.
Stay tuned for more updates on Nathan Swanepoel and his fellow competitors as they continue to make their mark in the world of gymnastics!
