Ekurhuleni gymnasts win silver on international stage

Starting the year with a milestone celebration and now international success, Masters Gymnasts Club has grown from strength to strength.

Although this year marks 30 years of dedication, development, and excellence, the club has added another highlight to its history by excelling at the Irtysh Zory International Acrobatic Gymnastics Tournament.

Held in a region where gymnastics is a priority sport, the event featured top athletes from Kazakhstan, Russia, and other leading nations.

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According to the club’s head coach, Dmitry Demianenko, the level of performance was exceptional, as athletes showcased breathtaking skills, world-class choreography, and routines that left spectators in awe.
“The level of performance was spectacular to watch.

“The skills and dance elements were truly out of this world,” said Demianenko.

Demianenko explained that the competition was intense.

He said both the pair and the group entered the finals in last position, but with determination and composure, they elevated their performance when it mattered most.

Demianenko elaborated, saying the finals began from a clean slate, and the gymnasts seized the opportunity to climb to second place.

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“I am proud to say that we brought home silver medals by the Women’s Group and women’s pair,” Demianenko shared.

The Women’s Pair consisted of Mawande Mkhize and Siphesihle Mkhize; they competed internationally for the first time.

The Women’s Group, which consisted of Mackenzie Mackay, Dené Greyvensteyn and Bailey Maré, made their second international appearance.

Last year, they reached the finals at the Turin Cup in Italy; this year, the trio stepped up onto the podium.
Demianenko said although the Mkhize siblings were nervous, they were incredibly excited.

He said the girls experienced a full spectrum of emotions, especially when routines didn’t unfold exactly as expected.

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International competition brings both mental and physical pressure, and the team had to manage it in real time.

According to Demianenko, it’s important for gymnasts to experience such pressure.

He explained that high–performance sport teaches life–changing lessons.

“These girls are not only focused during training; they carry discipline into their daily lives.

They are strong students, committed teammates, and respectful young people.”

Looking ahead, Demianenko said the Women’s Pair is working on new skills to increase routine difficulty while preparing for District, Provincial, and National Championships.

The Women’s Group is preparing for the World event in September in Italy, where they will represent South Africa.

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“The work never stops; Masters Gymnasts Club continually strives to grow stronger, nationally and internationally,” said Demianenko.

Demianenko thanked the City of Ekurhuleni, especially the Sports Department, for their support in developing not only high–performance gymnasts, but also children and adults of all backgrounds and ages.