Sport
18 August, 2025
Gymnast shows class as part of national contest
THE Mareeba Gymnastics Club is celebrating another one of its gymnasts after he was part of a gold-medal-winning Queensland team and picked up a tidy swag of individual achievements as well.
Finnlay Ford recently competed at the National Border Challenge and delivered an outstanding performance while representing Queensland.
He also secured impressive individual results, coming 3rd on Floor, 4th on Rings, 2nd on Vault, 2nd on Parallel Bars, 2nd on High Bar and 7th All Round.
“What makes this even more special is that Finnlay is not only an athlete from a small, regional club — he’s also one of our dedicated coaches,” club coach Dayna Pearce said.
“Having someone like him achieve at this level is incredibly inspiring for our younger gymnasts.
“It gives them a real-life role model and a clear picture of where this sport can take them.”
The National Border Challenge is an annual competition featuring teams from different states competing against Queensland’s top gymnasts from Levels 6 Optional through to Level 9.
“It is a national-level event that acts as an introduction and gateway to higher-level competition,” head coach Kelly Tulloch said
“Finnlay’s achievement is nothing short of outstanding.
“It’s an incredible achievement for another one of our athletes to not only compete but also place at a national level competition — especially given that our club operates with far fewer resources than many metropolitan clubs.”
Finnlay’s achievements follow on from the recent success by Oliver Hampton who won silver with the Queensland team, and an individual bronze medal in the vault, at the national Australian Gymnastics Championships.
Dayna said achievements like these didn’t happen alone.
“We are incredibly lucky to have head coach Kelly Tulloch guiding our gymnasts,” she said.
“Her passion, commitment, and ability to take our athletes above and beyond is nothing short of amazing.
“From local training sessions to the national spotlight — she makes it all possible.”
