Nathan Swanepoel, representing Team USA, secured a silver medal in the Men’s Double-Mini Trampoline at the 31st Fédération Internationale de Gymnastique (FIG) World Age Group Competitions held on October 22, 2023, in Navarra Arena, Pamplona, Spain. Competing in his first international event, Swanepoel achieved a score of 25.100 in the final round, demonstrating impressive skill among a field of athletes from 46 countries.
In a heartfelt message on Instagram, Swanepoel expressed his joy, stating, “I am beyond happy with how my first World Age Group Competition went. Placed second in prelims and secured a second place medal in finals. I have so much gratitude for the opportunity to compete in Spain for the U.S., and I am very thankful for the support from all of my coaches and medical staff. Could not have asked for a better week. Y gracias España.”
The competition featured fierce performances, with Canada’s Jeremy Meyer taking gold with a score of 25.200, while Australia’s River Mallam earned bronze, scoring 24.900.
Background and Training
Swanepoel, a student at Arizona State University, has been training with coach Vernon Vargas at Vargas Academy of Gymnastics since 2013. His dedication and hard work culminated in this significant achievement, marking a pivotal moment in his gymnastics career.
Another notable competitor, Taj Rodriguez Gleitsman from Santa Cruz, also showcased his talents at the championships. An alumnus of Aptos High School, Gleitsman competed in three events, finishing 19th out of 87 athletes in the Individual Men’s Trampoline prelims, where only the top eight advanced to the finals. He also teamed up with Changamire Anderson in the Men’s Synchronized Pair Trampoline, placing 15th out of 33 teams in the preliminaries. Additionally, Gleitsman secured 41st place in the Individual Men’s Double-Mini Trampoline.
The FIG World Age Group Competitions continue to be a platform for young gymnasts to showcase their abilities on an international stage, and both Swanepoel and Gleitsman have made notable contributions to Team USA’s presence at the event. Their achievements highlight the growing talent within the gymnastics community and the importance of international competitions in fostering athletic development.
