Star trampolinist and coach qualify for junior international championship

Years of hard work and sacrifice have finally paid off as aspiring Olympian and his world-champion coach have qualified for the international stage. JC Roux, along with his mother and mentor, Luitha Roux, have earned a place at the 28th FIG Trampoline Gymnastics World Age Group Competition to be held in Azerbaijan from November 26 to 29.

The Rouxs will be the only South Africans flying the nation’s flag high at the Baku event, and JC’s mind is already absolutely absorbed into his training regimen. The 16-year-old is at the beginning of a demanding 10-week programme that focuses on fitness, flexibility, psychology and biokinetics, not to mention a meticulously planned diet fit for a champion.

Qualification for the championships was vastly different from any previous event as it was done virtually. Footage of the routine was sent to international judges who, after several weeks, handed down the scores and qualification confirmation. “There was no atmosphere, no pressure and no adrenaline, and that didn’t help because I thrive on that energy. I am an energy junkie,” laughed the Hoërskool Bastion Grade 10.

This will be JC’s last opportunity to compete as a junior so the high-flying trampolinist is hoping it will be a case of third time lucky. Previous attempts where scuppered by a broken foot and then the onset of the global health pandemic that caused the cancellation of almost all international events. “It’s an opportunity of a lifetime and we will even make allowances for exams at the end of the year,” said his proud mother.

The costs of realising this dream is no loose change as it will cost of R50 000 each for the athlete and his coach to travel to Baku. The costs include multiple Covid tests and R40 000 for the pair to quarantine for two weeks upon arriving in the central Asian nation. Even up until boarding the plane, all JC’s efforts could be in vain should he test positive for the coronavirus in the weeks before his departure.

South Africa’s elite athletes notoriously receive little financial backing from national structures, and every additional cent can help this dedicated athlete overcome the final hurdle. Should anyone be willing and able to contribute to South Africa’s future Olympic trampolinist’s journey, they may contact Luitha Roux on 072 011 1011.