FIJI’S rising presence in aerobic gymnastics will be on show when two determined athletes, Robyn Eastgate and Lauren Pilla, take to the international stage at the FIG Suzuki World Cup 2026 in Tokyo, Japan on April 18.
Eighteen-year-old Eastgate returns to the global meet for the second time, competing in the Senior International division, while 12 year-old Pilla will make her debut in the Youth International Open category marking a major milestone in her young career.
Their journeys to Tokyo reflect two different paths, but the same unwavering determination.
Eastgate has largely trained independently, guided online by Philippines-based coach Lynette Moreno and supported by Australian mentor Deborah Greenbaum.
Her experience includes last year’s Suzuki World Cup and competitions at the National Clubs Carnival in Gold Coast, Australia.
But her journey has not been easy.
“I have more failures than success,” Eastgate shared. “It was really hard but I had to keep on going. I do one thing, it doesn’t work. Okay, try again. Keep on trying, failure after failure until it works.”
Her resilience has become the foundation of her growth, shaping her into one of Fiji’s leading aerobic gymnasts.
For Pilla, the road has been guided more closely from home. Training out of AeroGym Suva under coach Josiemaraya Ryland, she has also benefited from the expertise of Australian coaches Deborah Greenbaum and Mercedes McIntyre.
Despite her age, she has already been competing at the National Clubs Carnival since 2024.
Now, she steps onto one of the sport’s biggest stages for the first time.
“If you want to join gymnastics or any sport, you have to work hard, believe in yourself, and never give up on your dreams,” Pilla said.
Their selection highlights the growing strength of aerobic gymnastics in Fiji, with both athletes carrying not just personal ambition but national pride.
As they prepare to compete in Tokyo, Eastgate and Pilla represent the spirit of perseverance and promise two athletes at different stages of their journey, united by discipline, sacrifice and the dream of excelling on the world stage.
Gymnast Robyn Eastgate at a competition. n Inset: Young gymnast Lauryn Pilla in action. Pictures: SUPPLIED
