A TALENTED eight year old has been selected for the Welsh development squad gymnastics team.
Macaya Alsop has been doing gymnastics since the age of five. She started her gymnastics journey in Rhyl & Prestatyn Gymnastics Club.
When the club closed their doors due to retirement, Macaya moved to Bangor Gymnastics club, where she started training in the elite development squad.
In the last seven months, Macaya has been selected for the Welsh squad, training at the highest level.
She had her retrial for the Welsh squad last month and was re-selected, being one of only 10 girls from Wales to be chosen in her age group.
She will continue to train with the Welsh development squad on a four weekly basis, training on a Friday, Saturday and Sunday in Cardiff.
Macaya Alsop is dedicated to her sport
Mum Mandy Alsop said: "Macaya trains 25 hours a week, travelling from Rhyl to Bangor five days a week. As well as this she travels every Tuesday to Wrexham to train with the North area squad which she has been part of since the age of six.
"Our family are so proud of her.
"Macaya recently competed in Cardiff for her Elite compulsory level four competition and was placed seventh over all in Wales which is a great achievement for such a young gymnast."
Macaya trains at Bangor Gymnastics club, where she started training in the elite development squad. She has been coached by Ellie Hill since joining and has gained confidence and talent
The young gymnast is currently fundraising. All money raised will help Macaya with her gymnast journey.
"She has big dreams for her future and has great potential to reach them but sadly with the cost of travelling, hotels, food, fees, kit, this is now having an effect on us," Mandy added.
"Macaya is so dedicated to her sport and she has given up so much to train and become the best she can be.
"We are so very proud Macaya. She is our little Welsh star,"
Sponsored walks are planned as well as bag packing and other activities to help raise funds.
Visit www.gofundme.com/macayas-gymnast-journey for more and to donate.
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