Bradford will host its first-ever national rhythmic gymnastics competition at the Richard Dunn Sports Centre on Saturday.
Over 130 gymnasts from ten clubs from as far afield as Haverfordwest in Wales to Canterbury in Kent will descend on the Bradford Council-owned centre to contest five national titles.
Rhythmic gymnastics in Great Britain is a female-only sport, although men do compete in a few countries. The competitors work with hand-held apparatus, demonstrating their grace, flexibility, co-ordination and strength with routines performed to music.
Rhythmic gymnastics will be showcased at London 2012 as part of the Olympic programme, which also includes trampolining.
In rhythmic gymnastics, marks are awarded out of ten for all age groups on artistry and execution. This means the judges evaluate the difficulty of the movements, the composition of the exercise, choreography and choice of music. Marks are deducted for technical faults.
Councillor the Reverend Paul Flowers, executive member with responsibility for tourism, culture and sport, said: “We are honoured to host this prestigious event in Bradford.
“This is a highly popular sport that is enjoyed by participants and by audiences all over the world, especially when it is showcased during the Olympics.
“This event will give people the chance to see the stars of the future.”
The competition starts at 1.30pm, with presentations scheduled for 5.15pm. Admission is £7.50 for adults and £5 concessions, which includes children aged five to 15, students with an NUS card and senior citizens.
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