OTTAWA, ON (November 4, 2024) – Gymnastics Canada (GymCan) is thrilled to announce that three exceptional Canadian teams will participate in GymCan’s inaugural Gymnaestrada Connection, with two of these teams selected to represent Canada at the Pan American Gymnastics Union (PAGU) Gymnaestrada. Both events celebrate Gymnastics for All (GfA), showcasing the inclusivity, creativity, and community spirit that lies at the heart of gymnastics.
Introducing Gymnaestrada Connection
As a virtual event series dedicated to the diversity and unity of GfA, Gymnaestrada Connection provides clubs across Canada the chance to showcase their creative group performances on a national stage. Open to all genders, ages, and abilities, this event highlights the artistic expression and unity that define gymnastics. We are excited to present the three groups who will take the spotlight in GymCan’s Gymnaestrada Connection:
- Ad Astra Stars
Based in Edmonton, Alberta, Ad Astra Stars includes 20 members who will perform “Movement of Colours,” a dynamic and visually captivating routine in rhythmic gymnastics. “Team Ad Astra embraces a unique approach by including gymnasts of all ages, skill levels, and backgrounds in our performances,” said Coaches Connie Bramer and Kelly Mills of Ad Astra Athletic Academy. “Our routine ‘Movement of Colours’ showcases athletes ages 1 to 58—ranging from recreational beginners to provincial and national stream gymnasts, as well as retired competitors, adult performers, and coaches. We take pride in creating innovative choreography that celebrates the joy of movement and gymnastics together.”
- Legends & Sr Gymnaestrada
Representing Delta Gymnastics Club in British Columbia, this 23-member team will perform “Time of Your Life,” a celebration of friendship, fun, and lifelong memories. With experience in over five World Gymnaestrada’s, the team brings joy and a sense of camaraderie to each performance. “Our experience with Gymnaestrada is incredibly rewarding, as we get to work with people of all ages and abilities,” said Jenn Watts, Program Manager at Delta Gymnastics. “Our team includes families—parents and children participating together—grandparents, spouses, high-level athletes, and even those with little to no gymnastics experience. It’s amazing to watch everyone come together and support one another. For us, it’s not about winning or perfecting a routine; it’s about having fun and being part of a supportive, inclusive community.”
- Sēsawēwin ᓭᓴᐁᐧᐃᐧᐣ Gymnastics Collective Team
Hailing from Saskatchewan, the Sēsawēwin team includes 21 members and will perform “Two Worlds, One Home,” a culturally meaningful routine born from collaboration between Saskatchewan Gymnaestrada and the Peepeekisis Cree Nation. This unique performance, which debuted at the World Gymnaestrada, exemplifies the unity of cultures and celebrates diversity within the gymnastics community.
Canada’s Representatives at PAGU Gymnaestrada
Following Gymnaestrada Connection, two of the teams—Ad Astra Stars and Legends & Sr Gymnaestrada—have been selected to represent Canada at the PAGU Gymnaestrada, a virtual event hosted by the Pan American Gymnastics Union. This free celebration of Gymnastics for All invites countries from across the Americas to submit choreographed performances, showcasing the talents and inclusivity within the sport. These performances will be featured in a live broadcast on the PAGU YouTube Channel.
Catch Canada’s PAGU Gymnaestrada representatives in the live broadcast on December 7, 2024, at 17:00 CST and celebrate the spirit of gymnastics alongside participants from across the Americas!
“Congratulations to all the talented groups that will be showcased in GymCan’s inaugural Gymnaestrada Connection and those selected for PAGU Gymnaestrada!” said Denise Alivantov, GymCan’s Manager, Coach & Sport Development. “These virtual events provide an incredible opportunity for gymnasts across Canada to showcase their creativity and dedication on both national and international stages, breaking down geographical barriers to make gymnastics accessible to a wider audience. We are thrilled to promote Gymnastics for All (GfA), exemplify our values, and celebrate the joy and unity of our sport.”
Gymnastics Canada is immensely proud of all three teams for their hard work, dedication, and creativity. Join us in supporting these talented athletes as they bring the joy of movement and the spirit of community to audiences in Canada and beyond.
For more information, contact:
Katia Perin
Manager, Communications & Marketing
Gymnastics Canada
comms@gymcan.org
For more information, contact:
Emma Stanley
Coordinator, Sport Development & Communications
Gymnastics Canada
estanley@gymcan.org