A group of talented Fijian aerobic gymnasts showcased their skills in Australia last week as they participated in the Oceania Gymnastics Union AER Continental Camp held in Bendigo, Melbourne. This event brought together emerging athletes from across the region, all preparing for prestigious international competitions.
Fiji’s representation included Robyn Eastgate, competing in the Senior International category, and Lauren Pilla, a member of the Youth International group. The team also featured Ayden Akbar and Kesaia Sivo, who are being groomed for Future Youth International competitions in 2027, as well as Siege de Luzuriaga and Jemesa Lau, who are set to compete as Future Youth Internationals in 2028. Their coach, Josiemaraya Ryland, has been instrumental in their training, emphasizing high-performance development.
The athletes’ selection was guided by Coach Deborah Greenbaum, whose previous visits to Fiji in 2024 and 2025 helped identify potential gymnastic talent for international competition. Greenbaum’s mentorship has played a crucial role in enhancing Fiji’s pathway in aerobic gymnastics.
Maria Alvarado, a Board Director of the Gymnastics Federation of Fiji, expressed her gratitude to the Oceania Gymnastics Union for this significant opportunity. She highlighted that the camp not only sharpened the athletes’ skills but also provided essential international exposure as they prepare for future challenges.
“The dedication, perseverance, and commitment of these young gymnasts are commendable, as they continuously push boundaries and proudly represent Fiji,” Alvarado stated. “Their journey reflects the growing interest in aerobic gymnastics within the country and inspires other young athletes to follow their dreams with passion and determination.”
Throughout the week, the Fiji team benefited from training with some of the world’s leading coaches, including Deborah Greenbaum, who serves as the Oceania Technical Director for Aerobic Gymnastics and holds a record of twelve Australian championships. They also had the opportunity to learn from prominent coaches such as Matteo Guerrini from France, Balasz Farkas, a former senior athlete from Hungary, and Antonio Papazov, a four-time world champion from Bulgaria.
Working alongside such elite experts has proven to be an invaluable experience for Fiji’s young athletes, further motivating them as they aim for success on the international stage. The future looks bright for these dedicated gymnasts, who are paving the way for the next generation of aerobic gymnastics in Fiji.
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