NEW PLACE TO HANG OUT FOR GYM KIDS
Huge support and grants for Gwyn Jim
GWYN Jim, a Bangor-based gymnastic club recently moved into its new home on the outskirts of Bethesda thanks to grants from Magnox Wylfa, Sport Wales and a number of local businesses.
More than 500 children aged 4 to 14 will be taught gymnastic skills in a newly adapted building which features a sprung floor, Asymmetric bars, Parallel Bars, Fast track and much more .
Gwyn and Esther Owen, from Bangor established Gwyn Jim in 2012 as they couldn’t find a space for their middle child Ifan at any of the local clubs.
There were two year waiting lists for places so Gwyn, a secondary school sport teacher decided to run a session for Ifan and his friends.
Esther explained: “We never expected such an interest and during the last five years the club has grown in popularity.”
The club has been hiring local secondary school gyms and a team of local coaches have been recruited and trained. But due to the demand for places and the restrictions of hiring school gyms Gwyn and Esther have been searching for a building and financial support to create a purpose built facility. The unit on the Coed y Parc estate on the outskirts of Bethesda has been transformed into a dedicated gymnastic hall thanks to the support of local builders, parents and coaches. Gwyn Owen is excited about what the new gym will be able to offer youngsters from across Gwynedd.
“We’ve been overwhelmed by the support both financial and practical that people have given us. Parents have not only been supporting fundraising activities but have also been picking up paint brushes and helping us to create a fantastic facility.
“Having our own building allows us not only to train more young people but thanks to grant funding from Magnox Wylfa Sport Wales and many others we’ve been able to invest in new equipment so that our current gymnasts can develop advanced skills. The new gym will also have an area for parents to relax whilst their children are coached and there will be opportunities for other organisations to make use of the facilities. The unit includes a meeting room, with projector, coffee machine and Wi Fi, and a more comfortable lounge area for parents, supporters, coaches etc.”
For details call: Esther Owen 07590995038 or Gwyn Owen 07909871222.