Congratulations to Year 13 pupil Shobhitha, who won a gold medal at the Acro, Aero and Rhythmic British Championships 2023 in July. In the national NAC competition, she came top for her aerobic routine in the senior competition.

We spoke to Shobhitha about how she got into gymnastics, what it felt like to win, and what’s next for her.

When did you get into gymnastics?

I started my love of sport as an equestrian but at the age of nine years old, I wanted a change and learnt about aerobic gymnastics from my mum’s work friend. I attended Heathrow Gymnastics Club and was instantly in love. Now I train four times a week and compete nationally. 

What kind of gymnastics do you do?

I do aerobic gymnastics, which is different to acrobatic or rhythmic gymnastics that you may be used to seeing at the Olympics. Aerobic gymnastics consist of a floor routine done on a wooden floor rather than a carpet – it’s very fast paced and upbeat. Routines for individuals are composed of a maximum of 10 elements that must show at least one element of dynamic strength, static strength, jumps/leaps and flexibility/balance. You won’t see it at the Olympics but there are international and national competitions.

Who’s your role model? 

Simone Biles. She does a different style of gymnastics but has been public with her mental health struggles and injuries. She’s humanised the sport and gives me a lot of comfort when I am facing difficulties or injuries of my own. 

How did you feel when you won the gold medal?

You win on points and I was second to compete on the day. As the last competitor finished my Mum was actually the first to realise I had the most points and got the rest of the family on the phone. I was really excited and the other girls in my category were lovely and hugged me. The medal ceremony, where winners were presented with their medals, was held at the very end of the day after all the events. 

What comes next? 

I would like to progress to FIG (international level) and compete abroad. I’m currently applying to universities but really need to be in or near London to continue, so location will be a deciding factor. Luckily, most of the universities I’ve picked, based on the degree course they offer, happen to be in London, so I’m intending to keep it up if I can.

Best of luck Shobitha and keep us updated!