The long hours in the gym, injuries and countless setbacks have all helped prepare Benoni’s Anchè Davidson for the biggest challenge of her career when she competes at the 30th FIG Acrobatic Gymnastics World Championships in Italy in September.

Every obstacle has been part of the journey for Davidson.

The sacrifices have shaped her into the athlete she is today and she believes they have equipped her for her debut senior world champs alongside partner Kenneth Hart at the Vitrifrigo Arena.

“There have definitely been tough moments along the way. Long training hours, injuries, setbacks and balancing everything can be challenging,” she said.

“But those experiences have made me stronger and taught me not to give up when things get difficult. I think they’ve helped prepare me for competing on the world stage.”

Earning her senior national colours, after previously representing South Africa at the world age-group championships in Portugal two years ago, is a milestone she has worked tirelessly to achieve.

“It’s honestly such an incredible feeling. To wear the South African colours and represent my country at a World Championships is something I’ve dreamed about for years. I’m really proud to have the opportunity and hopefully make everyone back home proud too.”

Davidson credits her support network, including her family, acclaimed coach Armand Koekemoer, who was named Gymnastics South Africa’s Acrobatic Gymnastics Coach of the Year in 2024, and respected administrator Adri Koekemoer, for helping her reach this point.

“They’ve always supported me and encouraged me to keep going, especially when things got tough. They’ve taught me to work hard, trust the process and enjoy the journey,” she said.

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Davidson first stepped into a gymnastics club at the age of three and quickly fell in love with the sport.

“What started as something fun quickly became something I loved, and I’ve been doing it ever since.”

As she prepares for the world championships, she believes the trust and chemistry she has built with Hart have become one of the pair’s greatest strengths.

“It’s been such a cool experience. We’ve had to learn to trust each other completely and work together as a team. We’ve spent a lot of time training together and I think we push each other to be better every day.”

Although her immediate focus is on delivering a strong performance in Italy, Davidson hopes it will be another stepping stone towards a successful international career.

“I’d love to keep competing internationally and see how far I can go in the sport. I’d also love to inspire younger gymnasts to chase their goals no matter how big they seem.”

Those wishing to support Davidson and Hart’s journey to the World Championships can contribute to their BackaBuddy fundraising campaign via https://www.backabuddy.co.za/campaign/skybound-stars-anche-kenneth

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