Acrobatic gymnasts head to international event

A group of young acrobatic gymnasts are set to compete against teams from other countries for the first time.

The Cheltenham Academy of Acrobatic Gymnastics (CAAG) will be performing in the Geneva International Acro Cup 2026, in Switzerland, which starts on Thursday.

CAAG's competition squad has been training since the beginning of the year, and the club has also raised nearly £5,000 to fund the trip.

Coach Liv Mighten said: "They've practised very, very hard, they've all come in for extra one-to-one sessions and we can't wait to go."

Acrobatic gymnastics is based on teamwork and lifts and is usually performed by groups of two to four.

Each team has gymnasts who carry out supporting roles, known as bases, balanced with smaller gymnasts who are called "tops" and who perform the aerial stunts.

CAAG will be performing against teams from Switzerland, Italy, France and Brazil.

Their competition squad range in age from seven to almost 17.

Team member Freya, 13, said: "It's really cool because we've never been able to do it before.

"It's going to be quick, tense, but really fun."

Alina, 10, who will also be competing, said: "I couldn't even do a cartwheel when I came here, but now I do front handsprings... I'm nervous but also excited."

Their routines will be judged on difficulty, execution and artistry.

Mighten said: "It's very popular, they just love it and they do really well."

Follow BBC Gloucestershire on Facebook, X and Instagram. Send your story ideas to us on email or via WhatsApp on 0800 313 4630.