From tentative cartwheels at the age of five to standing proudly on podiums across Gauteng, Alessandro John George (7) has quickly added silverware to his early gymnastics journey.
Representing Golden Lions Gymnastics Club in Newlands, this young athlete’s journey shows his love for the sport.

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Alessandro’s introduction to gymnastics began as a playful exploration of his flexibility, yet it quickly evolved into a disciplined routine that now defines his young life. In 2024, he competed for the first time and earned his Junior South African colours for trampoline and tumbling.

This year, Alessandro continued his streak of success. On August 15, he achieved first place in tumbling level 3 at the District Competition, earning his first gold medal since he began competing. He also performed strongly in provincial tumbling and double mini trampoline events, and at the National I-Africa Competition, he earned second place in tumbling.

Reflecting on his journey, Alessandro described the joy of competing. “I felt happy that I won second place,” he said. He enjoys the training, learning new skills, and the thrill of gymnastics, which he describes as ‘more fun’ than other sports. His favourite moves include backflips and cartwheels, and he cites American superstar Simone Biles as his inspiration.

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Alessandro trains primarily on Tuesdays and Thursdays, with additional sessions on Fridays, often alongside friends. He hopes to compete internationally one day, particularly in China, a nation known for its competitive gymnastics landscape. Beyond medals, he aims to earn more certificates and continue developing his skills.

His mother, Alessandra, expressed immense pride in his achievements. “He doesn’t only train on Tuesdays and Thursdays. He finds time on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays to jump at home, even on the grass in the backyard,” she said. She added that balancing school and gymnastics was essential, and routine ensured that his education remained a priority while still allowing him the freedom to enjoy being a child.

Alessandro’s early experiences with competition were not without challenges. During his first competition, he placed third, and the disappointment tested his determination. Yet these experiences have helped him grow, pushing him to strive for excellence while maintaining his love for the sport. She hopes to see her son at the Olympics, emphasising that passion and happiness must guide his journey.

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