POLOKWANE – The 10-year-old Laciana ‘Lala’ Pitsi has been making waves in artistic gymnastics since joining Zanis Gymnastics Academy in January this year.

Despite being new to the sport, her passion, discipline, and determination have seen her excel in every competition she has entered.

In July, Lala competed at the Zanis Limpopo Competition held in Polokwane, where she won gold, finished second overall, and earned a district qualification.

The following month, she took part in the Limpopo Gymnastics Competition in Thabazimbi, where she again claimed gold and first place overall, along with a provincial qualification.

Her winning streak continued in September at the Inter-District Championships in Chartwell in Gauteng, where gymnasts from across the country competed.

Lala placed first overall, earning another gold medal and special recognition for her outstanding level one floor routine performance.

Her father, Sandy Pitsi, expressed his pride and gratitude for his daughter’s achievements.

“I’m still pinching myself because this is all so surreal, but ever grateful to our Heavenly Father for granting Lala the opportunity to pursue this discipline. A big thank you to the entire Zanis Polokwane team, especially coach Tanya Bouwman, Mathapelo Ngoepe, Magdeline Mokoena and Cordelia Kirk for their support and guidance,” he said.

He also extended appreciation to the Singh and Sinclair families, as well as the learners and staff at Myngenoegen English Private School, for their encouragement.

“We’re all so proud of this rough diamond in the process of being polished,” he concluded.