A Day of Precision and Pride

The multi-purpose hall Kirchenfeld was abuzz wiht excitement this past Saturday as the St. Gallen cantonal championships took center stage. The meticulous planning of the nine-member organizing committee, led by President mirjam Vogel, ensured a seamless event. From perfectly arranged equipment – balls,tires,clubs,and ribbons – to a dedicated kitchen team starting their day before dawn,every detail was carefully considered.

Despite the allure of a beautiful spring morning, a large crowd gathered to witness the gymnasts’ performances. The atmosphere was particularly charged with families eager to support their daughters and sisters as they competed for top honors.

Behind the Scenes: Dedication and Detail

The event ran smoothly, with only a minor sound system hiccup quickly resolved. The entrance to the arena was festively decorated in the blue and white colors of the host club, RG Diepoldsau-Schmitter, adding to the celebratory atmosphere. The gymnasts clearly relished the chance to display their skills before an keen audience.

One parent from Zurich shared, The effort these girls put in is immense.Seeing their pride and joy as they step onto the floor makes it all worthwhile. Indeed, the young athletes, adorned in sparkling costumes, elaborate hairstyles, and a touch of makeup, resembled miniature princesses, radiating confidence and grace.

Expanding Horizons: Open competition

The St. Gallen cantonal championships adopted an “open” format, welcoming participants from beyond the canton’s borders. this inclusive approach enriched the competition, with teams traveling from various regions, including Ems, Opfikon-Glattbrugg, Rüschlikon, Teufen, and Glarnerland. The event also featured talented athletes from the RLZ RG Ost and the RG Southeastern Switzerland base, fostering a spirit of camaraderie and healthy competition.

This open format aligns with the growing trend of regional and national competitions aiming to increase participation and exposure for young athletes. According to a recent report by the Swiss Gymnastics Federation, participation in rhythmic gymnastics has seen a 15% increase in the last five years, highlighting the sport’s growing popularity.

Local Triumphs and Team Spirit

Mia Baumgartner, representing the local club, secured the St. Gallen cantonal championship title in the youngest category, marking a important achievement. Other notable successes included Amy Hauser, Tesur Künsel, Elisiana Nikaj, Marilena Nikaj, Leni Leufen, and the RG Diepoldsau Schmitter group, all celebrating well-deserved victories.

Notably absent from the cantonal championship was Lea Schefer, who had previously earned a bronze medal at the RG Ticino event in Biasca. Sadly, an injury forced her to withdraw from this competition.

President’s Perspective: Pride and Future Aspirations

Mirjam Vogel, President of the organizing committee, expressed her satisfaction with the local association’s performance, stating, We are incredibly pleased to have secured four medals and several other high placements on our home turf. She highlighted Sara Marijanovic’s fourth-place finish in the P3B category and Mayleen hutter’s tenth-place result in the same category as commendable achievements.

Sydney Seitz and Melissa Bajramoska, both from RG Diepoldsau, further contributed to the club’s success by reaching the podium in the P3 C category. Vogel added, It’s been challenging for us to win medals at home in recent years, so achieving two podium finishes in the same category is particularly gratifying. The group narrowly missed out on a bronze medal, falling short by a mere 0.4 points.

Champions List

• Canton Alme EP: Mia Baumgartner (Diepoldsau)
• P1: Amy Hauser (Diepoldsau)
• P2: Tesur Künsel (Diepoldsau)
• P3: Marilena Nikaj (berneck)
• P5: Elisiana Nika (Diepoldsau)
• P6: Leni Leufen (Berneck)
• G1: RG Diepoldsau Schmitter