12-year-old Faith Condé proved that years of dedication pay off when she won gold at the South African National Gymnastics Championships in Eldoraigne, Centurion, on September 25.

Representing Junxion Gymnastics, Faith competed in four apparatus events, taking top honours on vault with 9.40. She earned second place on bars with 9.30, second on floor with 9.10 and fourth on beam with 9.00 to secure the overall Level 5 age 12 title.

“I felt very happy and excited. It means a lot to me because I love gymnastics, and it is my favourite sport,” she said.

Faith began gymnastics at seven years old, inspired by American gymnastics star Simone Biles, whose courage and achievements continue to motivate her.

“My biggest inspiration is Simone Biles. She is an amazing gymnast, and one day I hope to be just like her,” she said.

Faith trains three times a week for three hours a session, balancing her sporting commitments with schoolwork. She uses her free time to prepare for tests and catch up on assignments, while enjoying Minecraft, painting and ice-skating when she has a break.

Her father, Dean, said Faith’s interest in gymnastics began after she saw her twin brother enjoying the sport. The family also bought the children a trampoline when they were four, and Faith’s enthusiasm for jumping, spinning, somersaults and handstands never faded.

After she joined Junxion Gymnastics at seven, the family received positive feedback about her talent and saw how much she loved the sport.

Faith’s mother, Delia, said the national championships were different from previous competitions because her daughter appeared calm, excited, and mentally and physically prepared.

She recalled watching Faith’s performance with a new perspective, focusing less on the execution of her routines and more on the joy she brought to every movement.

“When they announced Faith as the National Champion, I was focused on her reaction. She didn’t know before that moment, and the pure joy and surprise made my heart swell with pride, because in that moment she realised her goal and experienced the joy in it,” she said.

Faith’s parents credited her coaches at Junxion Gymnastics, particularly Nikki Stubbs and her team, for their guidance and encouragement. Her twin brother, extended family and the wider gymnastics community have also supported her journey.

Beyond her achievements, her mother said she was proud of Faith’s humility, resilience and willingness to encourage those around her. She added that Faith trains alongside a group of young gymnasts who support one another and share a strong bond.

Looking ahead, Faith hopes to train with a national team and win more medals for South Africa, with the dream of one day representing the country internationally alongside her friends.

“Even though the journey might be tough, you have to keep pushing yourself, because you can do amazing things.”

Follow us on our Whatsapp channel, Facebook, X, Instagram and TikTok for the latest updates!