The Islands YMCA Gymnastics Team recently showcased their skills and brought home accolades (along with a championship banner) at the USA Gymnastics Georgia State Championship in Roswell. The competition, held from Dec. 9-10, drew 266 gymnasts from across the state, competing in Levels 1, 4, and Xcel Bronze. 

Guided by coaches Lauren Olsen, Charlotte Boatright, Carol Tanrath, and Rylie Tanrath, the gymnasts competed at the state level in a competition that demanded nothing short of excellence. 

Coach Olsen expressed pride in the team's performance, stating, "Our athletes displayed a level of dedication and passion that truly set them apart. Not only is this group hard-working, but they also demonstrate many of the characteristics we encourage in the gym. This victory is a testament to their hard work and the unwavering support of their families and the YMCA community in Savannah and Coastal Georgia." 

The athletes, having qualified in prior USA Gymnastics competitions, included seven gymnasts from Islands YMCA representing Level 1: Hayden Attia, Willow Christenberry, Makenzie Jones, Donna Jones, Catherine Roble, Leah Hoffman, and Kennedy Lipski. Hazel Hanno competed in level 4 competition. 

In total, the team secured 26 medals across different levels, culminating in the ultimate accolade – the first-place Georgia State Championship banner. This triumph not only solidifies the Islands YMCA Team’s standing as a powerhouse in gymnastics but also underscores the resilience, skill, and camaraderie that define this exceptional group of athletes. 

Among the standout performances, four gymnasts clinched State Champion titles in various events: 

Hayden Attia won in vault, floor, and all-around categories. Makenzie Jones secured a title in vault. Willow Christenberry won on uneven parallel bars. And Donna Jones won on balance beam.