Vernon’s Isabella Haldane is a rising star on the Canadian rhythmic gymnastics scene.
After starting the sport she quickly rose through the ranks winning gold medals for all of Western Canada as a pre-novice and novice.
At this year’s Nationals, the 12-year-old delivered strong performances and now she’s been presented with an opportunity of a lifetime.
Haldane, known affectionately as ‘Bella,’ has been chosen to represent Canada at the Pan American Sport Organization Training Camp in Texas. The Grade 7 Kidston student leaves Monday.
“I expect to get better at my ballet because there will be some pros there,” said Haldane. “I’ll learn some cool tricks and stuff. We train twice a day.”
The camp will have one athlete and one coach from each of the Pan American nations and will be hosted at Bela Karolyi’s ranch near Houston.
Athletes and coaches will work with international coaching stars and Olympic medallists with the aim of gaining inspiration and knowledge.
“Last year I was chosen to attend with Jaedyn Andreotti,” said Okanagan coach Camille Martens of Vernon. “It was an honour for both us and an unparalleled learning experience. It was clearly a contributing factor to her making the Junior Canadian National Team Pool last season. To be able to attend again, this time with another of my own athletes, is exhilarating.
“Bella has been working so consistently this summer and fall. It’s a fabulous time in her career (as she moves into the junior category) for us to get this kind of chance. I know we will both come home being better at our jobs (athlete/coach), knowing more and inspired.”
