News24.com | WATCH | SA Olympic hopeful dazzles with near-perfect gymnastic routine

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WATCH | SA Olympic hopeful dazzles with near-perfect gymnastic routine

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It may not have been in the Olympic Games, but artistic gymnast Caitlin Rooskrantz dazzled with an impressive performance over the weekend.

Sunday, 2 August would have been the date for the 18-year-old becoming the first artistic gymnast to represent South Africa at the Olympics in 15 years.

But while the Covid-19 pandemic scuppered those plans, it did not stop her enthusiasm.

In honour of marking the teenager's journey, Sanlam supported Rooskrantz by live streaming the routine from her training facilities in Johannesburg.

Rooskrantz's performance was impressive, as she flung from one bar to the next in a near-perfect routine which culminated with a 10/10 landing.

"I am so proud of Caitlin's routine," coach Ilse Pelser said via a press statement. "Having trained Caitlin since she first took an interest in gymnastics at the age of six, it was only fitting that Ilse would be right beside her as the nation watched her step up to the bars.

"Years and years of hard work are paying off. It was fantastic being out there with her - to see her do one of the best routines of her life."

Rooskrantz expressed her elation and relief afterwards. "I'm over the moon. I was nervous about it, but I gave it my best and I'm so proud of the end result - especially considering that I've been in lockdown for over three months and have only been back training for a month. I'm so grateful to Sanlam for this incredible opportunity, and I’m more motivated than ever. The dream hasn’t changed, only the timeline."

WATCH the performance in the video clip below:

- Compiled by Sport24 staff

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