The Tribune

THE Atlantis Crown - the biggest gymnastics competition in the Caribbean - got off to an exciting start on Thursday as hundreds of gymnasts packed the Imperial Ballroom, hoping to jump, soar and tumble their way into the finals.

The Atlantis Crown is in its sixth year. Over 2,600 people, including over 800 athletes from the United States, Canada, Panama and Suriname, have come to the Bahamas for the three-day tournament at the Atlantis Resort, Paradise Island. Additionally, just under 100 Bahamian gymnasts are participating, according to tournament organiser Cindy Scharns.

“Everything is going really well. The kids are having fun. The parents seem to be doing well with everything. I’m really excited about the energy and the atmosphere that’s out there today. People are having a good time. Atlantis is estimating that there are well over 2,600 people here … and I know there are several people staying off site. That’s a pretty nice number. We’re happy with the turn-out,” Ms Scharns said.

Fans packed the ballroom, which has been transformed to accommodate the tournament.

The Bahamas is represented in the Atlantis Crown by three clubs - Bahamas Star Gymnastics, Nassau Nastics and Grand Bahama Gymnastics.

This year, organisers have introduced the trampoline and tumbling competition to the schedule, which also includes the balance beam, vault, uneven bars and the floor routine.

Ms Scharns said fans and participants are excited about the additions. “That’s really exciting and up and coming because you can compete in trampoline and tumbling when you’re a little bit older.”

Also competing this weekend are the Region 5 Elite Ambassador Team, made up of the United States’ two top senior elite and two top junior elite gymnasts from the World Championships.

The competition ends on Sunday. Tickets are $10 for children and $20 for adults.