Young Mbombela gymnast Mariné Lombard shines at Women’s Artistic Gymnastics National Championships

Young Mbombela gymnast Mariné Lombard has made waves in the gymnastics world after her impressive performance at the Women’s Artistic Gymnastics (WAG) National Championships. The 16-year-old gymnast, who trains at the Nelspruit Gymnastics Academy, finished third overall at the national competition and was the only gymnast to win a medal in each of the four apparatuses.

Competing in the over 14 Olympic entry category for the first time, Mariné showcased her talent and skill on the vault, bar, beam, and floor. She secured a gold medal on the beam, a silver on the vault and floor, and a bronze on the bar. Despite a mishap on her favorite apparatus, the bar, Mariné’s overall performance was still enough to earn her a spot on the podium.

Mariné’s success at the national championships is a testament to her dedication and hard work in the sport. Having started gymnastics at the age of four under the guidance of coach Maré Putter, Mariné has continued to excel and push herself to new heights. Her return to the Nelspruit Gymnastics Academy in 2023 has proven to be a fruitful decision, as she continues to improve and make history in Mpumalanga gymnastics.

With her sights set on representing South Africa on the international stage, Mariné’s performance at the WAG National Championships has set her on the right path towards achieving her goals. Her coaches, Maré and Jaco Putter, are proud of her outstanding performance and believe that she has the potential to inspire younger gymnasts to follow in her footsteps.

Mariné’s journey in gymnastics is just beginning, and her success at the national championships is a sign of great things to come. As she continues to train and compete, the future looks bright for this talented young gymnast from Mbombela.