Young Maori gymnast represents New Zealand

Tu Tangata, Issue 16, 1 March 1984, Page 4

Young Maori gymnast represents New Zealand

by Ressy Marafiaano

A 14 year old Christchurch girl has become the first Maori ever to represent NZ in the sports of gymnastics, trampolining and tumbling.

Lee Williams is also the youngest member in the NZ team to go overseas at the age of 9. Just returned from the Australian Nationals, Lee is unique in that she is the only girl in her class competing in tumbling, a class in which she has gained two gold medals in the junior womens section. Lee is a member of the Alpha club in Christchurch and is coached by Mr Alf Holt. She spends about ten hours a week practising. She seems quite unruffled by her success in the field of tumbling and effortlessly demonstrates her double back somersault as if she’s been doing it for years. In fact she’s put in many hours perfecting her routines. Lee says its a great thrill meeting competitors from different countries and the rub off from seeing different styles and techniques really improves performances. Lee’s father maintains each trip away has given her a tremendous boost. Lee is very lucky in having keen support from her father, mum and the whole family. She spends much time in the backyard flipping back and forward with brothers and sisters as keen spectators. However Lee’s father is aware

that as she begins her secondary schooling, there will be a need to watch that Lee doesn’t become pressured by competition.