I couldn't be prouder - Fylde Coast Rhythmic Gymnasts make history and have sights set on Los Angeles Olympics
“To finish anywhere near the finals is unheard of”
A talented rhythmic gymnast team from Warton has made history after becoming the first group representing Great Britain to reach the finals of an international competition - and now have their sights firmly on the Olympics.
The five girls from Fylde Coast Rhythmic Gymnastics recently returned from the World Challenge Cup in Portugal where they not only surpassed expectations by qualifying for the finals, but also secured and impressive eighth place overall.
It marks the highest finish ever achieved by a rhythmic gymnastics team representing Great Britain.
Their coach, Ana Blackburn, couldn’t be prouder and the achievement is the result of years of sacrifice, determination and relentless training.
“The girls train for hours every single evening, after a long day studying at college or university to reach this level.
“They push themselves and each other to the limits and beyond for their sport. They never complain.”
Although they have already won gold medals in both the English and British Championships whilst representing their club, Ana said competing internationally is an entirely different challenge.
“They have already won gold medals in the English and British Championships representing the club.
“But to be competing for Great Britain against other countries, who train full time, have purpose built facilities and are completely funded by their country, is a huge step.
“To finish anywhere near the finals is unheard of.
"I have been half joking that, if this was football, the girls would be getting open top bus parades to welcome them home!"
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With the European Championships coming up in Bulgaria and another World Challenge Cup event in Romania, the squad are looking for sponsors to help with their ultimate quest for The Olympics.
“This is brand new territory for Great Britain in this sport but they need financial help to hopefully fly the Union Jack for rhythmic gymnastics in the 2028 Olympics.
“That is our ultimate goal, but we know there is a long journey ahead of us.”
“We need help though to pay for the costs like hiring the hall every evening and travelling all over the country, Europe and beyond.
“That's why we are appealing for help with funding to any businesses or donors who would like to help the girls move one step nearer to proudly representing their country in Los Angeles.”