Gymnasts shine at zones

Seven Prince George gymnasts secured first-overall finishes at the Zone 8 championships in Quesnel on the weekend.

Winners, in various categories, were: Kaylee Watt (Level 1 tyro); Samantha Thomas (Level 1 novice); Rachel Schuetz (Level 1 open); Reid Powers (Level 2 novice); Kimberly Marsh (Level 2 open); Naraa Little (Level 3 novice); and Miranda Doerksen (Level 3 open).

In team competition, Prince George placed first in all three levels. Athletes who contributed to the team titles were (Level 1) Watt, Ally Steindl and Dallyn Long; (Level 2) Powers and Marsh; and (Level 3) Little, Doerksen and Rhiana Palfy.

In boys competition, Lane Oke, Evan Weis and Colbey Simunac swept to all-around gold medals and Tyler Strizich earned all-around silver. Together, the boys ended up first overall as a team.

At the non-competitive levels, Jessica Naeth, Kaylee Oberg, Farrah Normand, Macyn Unger, Rachel Massey and Sydney Hamilton all participated in the Gymstart physical ability group. Meanwhile, in the Interclub division, locals who were in action were Paris Garcia, Ilyana O’Beirne, Isabella Jackson, Kaitlyn Muir, Julia Mah, Sara Sands, Emma Sands, Suzanna Pattinson, Stefanee Patinson, Taelor Wintemute, Jade Jacobs, Kora Campbell, Jessica Willows and Rebecca Baldridge.

The Zone 8 championships doubled as the annual Gold Pan Invitational.

Prince George will host provincials April 6 and 7. The meet will be held at the Northern Sport Centre.