Peninsula pair taking on the world

The world awaits Redcliffe PCYC trampoline gymnasts Harrison Lee and Bryce Edwards, pictured above, later this month.

In just under two weeks, they fly to Bulgaria for the FIG (Federation Internationale De Gymnastique) Trampoline World Age Group Championships.

Lee, 18, has been to one world titles before. Edwards, 16, will make his debut at this level with the Australian team in Sofia from November 23-26.

They are in a four-man team with Alex Luyckx (Victoria) and Leuca McLeod (Tasmania) for the 17-21 Male Trampoline competition.

Lee and Edwards will team-up in the Synchronised Trampoline and be joined by Troy Sitkowski (NSW) and Tristan Styles (Tasmania) for the Mini Double Trampoline.

The Peninsula Pair warmed-up with gold (Lee) and silver (Edwards) in the Australian Club Championships, but still had to meet strict criteria for national selection.

“We were hoping they would get in,” Redcliffe PCYC Gymnastics Coordinator and coach Lyn Gilroy said.

“We had a couple of bad competitions because the boys were sick. But they qualified in last competition which was great.

“The competition (in Sofia) will be tough and it will be a very strong field. I want them to have fun, enjoy the experience and put in good, clean routines.

“It would be nice to make the semi-finals and finals … but it will be tough.”

Edwards and Lee train three hours a night and 14-15 hours a week, on top of schoolwork part-time jobs, physio and personal training. “It’s demanding and a big commitment,” Gilroy said.

Lee said preparations have been going well leaving him feeling “good, confident, nervous and excited”.

“It’s my second time on the world stage, so I’m not as nervous and more confident than last time,” he said.

“I’m trying to relax now and not think too much about it. I want to get through all the routines. It would be nice to make a final.”

Edwards, at the young end of the 17-21 male age group, says he is “hoping to learn from my first world championships”.

“I’m just building on a few things now, looking for improvements,” he said.

“I’ll look to enjoy the experience and see where I’m at in this level (of competition). I think it’ll be fun.”

Coach Lyn Gilroy said it was “great for our club” to have two in the national team.

“It shows anyone can do what they want to do, from recreation classes right through to worlds,” she said. “You put the effort in – and it is hard work - you can do it.”

The world titles are costing Lee and Edwards $8000 each for the trip. Fundraising is under way and sponsorship is being sought.

Next year they could have the chance of three overseas trips. If you can help contact Redcliffe PCYC on 3385 1900 or click here.