BREAKING: Scotts Valley’s Nathan Swanepoel has just made history by earning a silver medal for Team USA at the 31st Fédération Internationale de Gymnastique (FIG) World Age Group Competitions in Pamplona, Spain, on Sunday. Competing in his first international event, Swanepoel secured an impressive score of 25.100 in the Men’s Double-Mini Trampoline for athletes aged 17 to 21.
This thrilling victory is a monumental achievement for the young gymnast, who expressed his excitement on Instagram: “I am beyond happy with how my first World Age Group Competition went. Placed second in prelims and secured a second place medal in finals. I have so much gratitude for the opportunity to compete in Spain for the U.S., and I am very thankful for the support from all of my coaches and medical staff. Could not have asked for a better week. Y gracias España.”
Swanepoel’s performance comes amidst fierce competition, with athletes from 46 countries vying for medals. Canadian gymnast Jeremy Meyer clinched the gold with a score of 25.200, while River Mallam from Australia took home the bronze with 24.900.
Currently attending Arizona State University and training at North Valley Gymnastics in Phoenix, Swanepoel began his gymnastics journey under coach Vernon Vargas at the Vargas Academy of Gymnastics in 2013. His success marks a significant milestone not just for him but for American gymnastics on the international stage.
In addition to Swanepoel, fellow gymnast Taj Rodriguez Gleitsman from Santa Cruz, an Aptos High alum, also showcased his skills at the competition. Competing in three events, Gleitsman, a student at the University of Utah, finished 19th out of 87 in the Individual Men’s Trampoline prelims, missing the final cut. He partnered with Changamire Anderson in the Men’s Synchronized Pair Trampoline, where they placed 15th out of 33 teams in the prelims. Gleitsman also finished 41st in the Individual Men’s Double-Mini Trampoline.
As news of Swanepoel’s achievement spreads, it underscores the rising talent within U.S. gymnastics. With the world watching, the future looks bright for this promising athlete and his teammates.
Stay tuned for more updates from the FIG World Age Group Competitions as we follow the performances and achievements of athletes representing their countries on the global stage.
