Friday, 3 July 2026

Local athletes host Otago champs

    By Nick Brook
    1. Regions
    2. South Otago

    Aggie Austin, 16, springs into action. PHOTOS: NICK BROOK
    Aggie Austin, 16, springs into action. PHOTOS: NICK BROOK
    About 80 athletes competed at the Otago Aerobics Championships held in Balclutha last week.

    Emma McCaughan looks at ease in the middle of her high-intensity routine.
    Emma McCaughan looks at ease in the middle of her high-intensity routine.
    Competitors aged from 6 to 23 travelled from Auckland, Christchurch, Dunedin, Clutha, Wānaka, Invercargill and Te Anau to pitch 141 explosive fitness routines to judges over the two-day event at TPŌMA .

    Balclutha gymnast Lauren Scarth, 14, demonstrates the aero in aerobics, at the Otago...
    Balclutha gymnast Lauren Scarth, 14, demonstrates the aero in aerobics, at the Otago Championships in Balclutha on Saturday and Sunday.
    "It was a fantastic weekend of competition, with athletes showcasing a high standard of aerobics, great sportsmanship and impressive performances throughout the event," coach Janine McCaughan of host gym Astra Aerobics, said.

    Eighteen successful Otago athletes will be keeping limber for the last South Island qualifying event in Invercargill on July 11, including two Astra athletes who have qualified to represent New Zealand at the 2026 Australian Gymnastics Championships in Sydney from July 18-20.

    Olivia Hurley, 18, in the Level 9 individuals, on Saturday.
    Olivia Hurley, 18, in the Level 9 individuals, on Saturday.
    Mrs McCaughan said 17 local athletes were training to represent Otago in this year’s major event, the 2026 XP New Zealand Gymnastics Nationals in Tauranga, from September 29.

    nick.brook@alliedmedia.co.nz

    Clutha Leader