LOWOOD’S aspiring gymnasts were given a rare opportunity last month when Olympic silver medallist Ji Wallace visited the region as part of his 17-day Goodwill Tour across Queensland.
Wallace, the only Australian to win an Olympic medal in gymnastics, launched the tour in his role as a coach in Gymnastics Queensland’s high-performance program.
He visited Lowood and Gatton Gymnastics at the Lockyer Valley Sports and Aquatic Centre on Tuesday, March 25. “I’m really excited about visiting the Darling Downs and potentially being able to help clubs continue their good work – which could result in another Australian gymnast standing on an Olympic podium,” Wallace said.
He observed training sessions and met with young gymnasts and coaches to share his insights on building speed, agility and strength — key traits needed to compete on the world stage.
“It’s important we conduct these tours because who knows, there could be a medal prospect in our own backyard leading into Brisbane 2032,” he said.
Gymnastics Queensland CEO Chris Rushton said the tour aimed to ensure regional clubs had the tools and guidance to help young athletes reach their full potential ahead of the Brisbane Olympic Games.
