A GROUP of young and talented Fijian aerobic gymnasts made their mark in Australia last week following their participation in the Oceania Gymnastics Union AER Continental Camp in Bendigo, Melbourne.
The camp brought together some of the best emerging athletes from across the region who are preparing for top-level international competition.
Fiji was proudly represented by Robyn Eastgate, who is training in the Senior International category, and Lauren Pilla, who is part of the Youth International group. Also attending are Ayden Akbar and Kesaia Sivo, who are being groomed as Future Youth Internationals for 2027, along with Siege de Luzuriaga and Jemesa Lau, who are preparing as Future Youth Internationals for 2028.
The team was accompanied by Coach Josiemaraya Ryland, who continues to support their development through high-performance training.
These athletes were selected on the recommendation of Coach Deborah Greenbaum, whose development visits to Fiji in 2024 and 2025 helped identify gymnasts with strong potential to compete internationally.
Her guidance has been a key factor in strengthening Fiji’s pathway in aerobic gymnastics.
Gymnastics Federation of Fiji Board Director Maria Alvarado said the organisation was deeply grateful to the Oceania Gymnastics Union for providing this opportunity, describing it as a significant step forward for the sport in Fiji.
She said the camp not only helps athletes sharpen their skills but also gives them much-needed international exposure as they prepare for future competitions.
“This feature celebrates the dedication, perseverance, and commitment of these young gymnasts who continue to push boundaries and represent Fiji with pride.
“Their journey reflects the fast-growing interest in aerobic gymnastics across the country and serves as an inspiration to other young athletes to chase their dreams with passion and determination,” Alvarado said.
Throughout the week, the Fiji team was training under some of the world’s best coaches.
Among them is Deborah Greenbaum herself, who serves as the Oceania Technical Director for Aerobic Gymnastics and is a twelve-time Australian champion.
They were also learning from French national coach Matteo Guerrini, Hungarian former senior national team athlete Balasz Farkas, and Bulgaria’s four-time world champion Antonio Papazov.
For Fiji’s young athletes, training alongside such elite experts has been an invaluable experience.
