“To be a successful gymnast, and achieve your goals, you need to be strong and flexible. You also need to concentrate and be committed,” said Lethan Smith.
This 15-year-old gymnast has had a passion for gymnastics since he was eight, and his father, Ronald Jones said, “He was always doing splits in our yard. He pleaded with me to find a place for him to participate in the sport he loves, and that is how he ended up training with the Golden Lions Club in Newlands.”
According to Ronald, Lethan is very committed and never misses a practice session. “He trains from Monday to Friday – without fail. And, I would like to use this opportunity to thank his mother, Natalie Jones, who is always prepared to fetch and carry him to and from training sessions,” said Ronald.
Since starting with the Newlands-based club, Lethan, together with his gymnastics partner, Decota Phillips, has done very well in the club competitions, and, save for one occasion where they were awarded a bronze medal, they have always ended in first place.
“Last year they qualified for their Central Gauteng colours, and went on to represent Gauteng during the South African games held in Cape Town where they secured a first place. During this year’s South African Games held in Tshwane, they were once again placed first,” Ronald said, proudly.
Lethan has also participated in the National School Gymnastics competition this year, and were awarded a gold medal. “Gymnastics is my life, and when I am older, I would love to become a coach. My biggest dream is to represent South Africa,” Lethan concluded.
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