Sport

Flyers Rise to the Challenge

Abby is County Champion

Okehampton Flyers Gym, Trampoline and DMT Club has risen the ranks at regional and national events. The inclusive club practises several gymnastics disciplines from high performance trampoline, to double mini trampoline (DMT) and tumbling. Preschool gymnastics, general gymnastics (bar, vault, beam and floor), Free-G (parkour, tricking and freerunning) and cheerleading round out a varied programme for all age groups.

Since first entering British Gymnastics (BG) competitions in 2017, the club has achieved one FIG national medal, 18 NDP national medals including 10 gold, more than 50 South West medals and 22 BSGA schools regional, zonal and national medals, with some gymnasts achieving 9.0 to 9.9 scores at regional and national events. Head coach Vicki Pritchard is a South West Squad coach and one of only 12 coaches selected across the country to qualify as a BG Performance Coach in trampoline in 2019. ‘Local support has been fantastic with generous donations from Okehampton United Charities, the Inner Wheel of Okehampton, the Rotary Club of Okehampton, Manor House Hotel and Sport England adding to fundraising from club members,’ said Vicki.

Okehampton Flyers is building a great team of coaches and volunteers including students from Okehampton College: ‘We’re continually raising money for more coaches to qualify, and we’re grateful for all of the help from parents and other volunteers,’ she added. The club raised approximately £35,000 for new equipment over the last few years and it is now preparing for the upcoming season of British Gymnastics events including national Spring Cup competitions. Squad trials for boys and girls of 4 to 8 year olds in trampoline and tumbling are being held. For more information email Vicki at vicki.pritchard@ okehamptonflyers.org.uk Training sessions are based at Parklands Leisure Centre and at Okehampton College.

Abby Turner, a member of Okehampton Golf Club, has become Devon Women’s County Champion for the second time. After 27 holes of scratch golf at East Devon Golf Club Abby was through to the semi-finals. Abby beat Emily Morey (East Devon) in the morning to progress to the final against Lauren McGinnis (Churston). After a nail biting final Abby won the Championship 3 & 2. Abby has been a member of the Devon County first team since 2012 and she was also County Champion in 2014. Despite working full time and being mother to 11-year-old Harry, Abby is still able to keep the Okehampton Golf Club flag flying by playing championship golf.

Golf within the ladies’ section of Okehampton is at an all time high in their centenary year. The section would welcome any new ladies who would like to join, both beginners or more experienced players.