STUDENTS HAVE HIGH HOPES FOR GEORGIA
AUSTRALIA’S top gymnastics medal hope Georgia Godwin can rely on home town support at next year’s Commonwealth Games.
Gold Coaster Godwin, fresh from Australia’s best female all-around world championship performance in six years, was keen to celebrate her success with students at Merrimac State School, which she attended for five years.
Godwin, 20, finished 13th at the world championships in Montreal, Canada – a feat which impressed Grade five student Jacob Boff, 10.
“It’s cool and exciting knowing someone who came to our school ... is doing so well,’’ he said. “I hope Georgia gets a gold medal.’’
Godwin was buoyed to be the second highest-finishing Commonwealth athlete, behind Canadian Elsabeth Black, at the world titles.
She said she is glad she did not quit gymnastics two years ago, after injuries marred her Rio Olympics campaign, adding that the Gold Coast Games has become the driving force behind her comeback.
“The Gold Coast is my home town and not many people get a chance to compete at a home Games,’’ said Godwin.
“Coming 13th at the world championships has shown me hard work does pay off and it has put fire in my belly to do my best at the Commonwealth Games.’’