Bobby Helps Eastern Suburbs Gymnasts Stick the Landing

The Eastern Suburbs Gymnastics Club (ESGC) recently upgraded its facilities with new bar rails for their uneven bars, along with beam mats, thanks to the approval of $14k from the Bobby Foundation. This upgrade is set to enhance the training experience for both recreational and competitive gymnasts, as well as improve safety standards at the club.

After years of daily use, the equipment had become hazardous and in need of replacement. With a thriving programme seeing a mix of competitive gymnasts, school-aged and preschool participants through the doors, equipment must be kept in tip-top shape. The new equipment is now easier to set out and wipe down, which also brings it to the level required for use during competition.

The new gear has already made a significant impact. Jessica Brosnahan, Grants Coordinator at ESGC said, “In particular, the beam mats have made a real impression, with coaches and gymnasts being very happy to have a consistent and soft surface to land on. The area in front of the beams has become a new floor space when the beams are not in use and is often used for practicing new tricks when children aren't confident yet and need a soft-landing space. Because it is just the right amount of cushioning and all in one piece, it is a very safe area for them to do so.”

“Our funding experience with the Bobby Foundation was fantastic”, Jessica shared. “The portal was easy to navigate, we received personalised support when we had questions, and the process of obtaining and using the funds was seamless. The new equipment has allowed us to continue to provide safe and high-quality training to our community. Now that competition season has started, we are hosting events at the gym and athletes from other clubs are also able to take advantage of the new bar rails and beam mats. Gymnasts are no longer at risk of getting splinters from the bars, and coaches are confident in the stability of the rails.”

“By providing fit for purpose equipment, the Bobby Foundation has helped ESGC continue to enable sport at a grassroots level and bring together communities.”

The Bobby Foundation: Bringing people together through the love of sport.