GYMNASTS SET BAR HIGH

JUNIOR SPORT LIFTOUT INSIDE

PRODIGIOUS gymnastics talent Asher Bayles has thrown herself under the eye of national selectors with a standout performance at the weekend’s state titles in Geelong.

The talented 12-year-old finished a narrow second overall in the future internationals competition, claiming gold in the vault, beam and floor and silver on the bar.

Fellow YMCA Geelong athlete Hannah Hobday finished sixth overall in the future internationals, claiming a medal on floor.

YMCA Geelong coach Rachel Crawford said Asher was a standout performer across the weekend.

“The head coach of Australia certainly has his eye on her potential,” Crawford said. “She is definitely right up there on the radar.

“I think she only just missed out first place. She had a slip on the bars, but other than that her performances were outstanding and they certainly have an eye on her.”

Marley Bishop was crowned state champion in the 12-and-under level eight competition, claiming gold on floor and bronze on bars.

Natalie Pianto also claimed a state championship in the level seven over-14s.

“She (Natalie) has been state champion last year in her age group. She has done really well, stepping up to level seven is a big one from level six,” Crawford said.

“Going into it we weren’t quite sure (how she’d go). We thought she’d have a chance because she is quite clean, but she managed to do outstanding performances all around.”

A number of other YMCA Geelong and Aerosport All Stars athletes in the boys and girls divisions claimed medals across the weekend, highlighting the local talent in gymnastics.

Airez Coyle was one of those, performing well in the level nine 10-12 year olds division. She claimed gold on floor and silver on vault with a couple of falls on beam proving costly to her overall finish.

Airez also claimed the Carol Sussman award for outstanding artistry and performance in a floor routine at the Spectacular on Sunday night.