Fiji’s emerging stars in Aerobic Gymnastics have just arrived in Melbourne to take part in the highly regarded Oceania Gymnastics Union AER Continental Camp, scheduled to be held in Bendigo from December 8 to 11. This prestigious event brings together the region’s top athletes competing in Levels 9 and 10 of the Australian Levels Program, alongside Youth, Junior, and Senior International categories.
The Fijian delegation includes talented athletes such as Robyn Eastgate (Senior AER International) and Lauren Pilla (Youth AER International). Additionally, promising future stars Ayden Akbar and Kesaia Sivo are preparing to represent Fiji in the Future Youth Internationals for 2027, while Siegede Luzuriaga and Jemesa Lau aim for the same competition in 2028. Their journey is guided by coach Josie Maraya Ryland, who plays a crucial role in their development.
Selection of these athletes was based on the expert recommendations of Deborah Greenbaum, the Oceania Technical Director and development specialist. Greenbaum’s visits to Fiji in recent years have successfully uncovered a pool of promising young talent ready to take on international challenges.
At the camp, the Fijian team will receive training from an elite group of world-class coaches, including Deborah Greenbaum, a twelve-time Australian champion, along with France’s national coach Matteo Guerrini, former Hungarian senior national athlete and gold medalist Balasz Farkas, and Bulgaria’s four-time world champion Antonio Papazov.
The Gymnastics Federation of Fiji has expressed its appreciation to the Oceania Gymnastics Union for their support, emphasizing the camp’s significance for the young gymnasts. This experience offers them an invaluable opportunity to refine their skills, gain international exposure, and enhance their preparation for future competitions. The Federation noted that the athletes’ commitment and hard work illustrate the growing passion for Aerobic Gymnastics in Fiji, aiming to motivate even more young individuals to embrace the sport. This event not only showcases Fijian talent but also highlights the potential for future achievements on the international stage.