Casey makes history

The City of Lisburn Salto Gymnast was the first Irish gymnast to take part in the final, which was held last Friday, with the top 24 gymnasts in Europe battling for the title.

A delighted Casey, a pupil at Laurelhill Community College, placed 22nd in the final.

Casey said: “It was really good. My mum and dad were really pleased.

“It was a good experience.”

Salto credited both 14-year-old Casey and her personal coaches, Kim Kensett-Friar and Sun Jie for the excellent result.

Commenting on Casey’s results, Gymnastics Ireland Performance & Technical Manager Sally Filmer stated: “Taking a well earned place among Europe’s elite, Casey pulled out a solid performance in the finals, finishing 22nd. This proves that she is among the best juniors in Europe.”

Gymnastics Ireland CEO Ciaran Gallagher added: “Casey’s result in the All-Around final is a justified reward for not just Casey herself but her club, coaches and parents. From all at Gymnastics Ireland congratulations Casey and the rest of the Irish Team.”

The Senior girls team also produced some good results at the European Championships by finishing in 19th place and securing Ireland a place in the European Olympics in 2015.

Salto are proud to announce that three of the five girls on the senior team are Salto gymnasts; India McPeak, Nicole Mawhinney and Sarah Beck. The future of gymnastics in NI is looking bright with the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow in July.