In the heart of the glittering Mediterranean, Monaco is playing host to a different kind of elite this summer. Far from the casinos and superyachts, twelve young gymnasts from France’s junior and espoir teams are honing their skills in an intensive training camp that merges rigorous athletic discipline with a touch of the Principality’s allure.
These rising stars, aged between 12 and 15, have taken over the prestigious Princesse Stéphanie gymnastics hall, their youthful energy and determination a contrast to their opulent surroundings in the Principality. Led by Marie-Angéline Colson, a former Olympian and now national junior manager for the French Gymnastics Federation, the camp offers a unique blend of intense training and cultural enrichment.
A Perfect Setting for Aspiring Champions
Monaco provides an ideal setting for these young athletes to kickstart their season. The idea is it is a good to be inspired by the sea while training in the summer holidays. Many of these gymnasts have never experienced Monaco’s sunny coastline, and their excitement is palpable. Beyond the rigorous schedule of three to six hours of training daily, the camp also includes excursions to iconic spots like the Oceanographic Museum and the Prince Rainier III swimming pool, emphasizing a holistic approach to their development.
The training is designed not only to sharpen their technical skills but also to build team spirit, a crucial aspect in a sport often perceived as individualistic.
A Taste of Victory and the Road Ahead
The dedication of these young gymnasts is already yielding impressive results. At the recent European Junior Championships in Rimini, Italy, several of these athletes brought home a trove of medals, including four European titles. Elena Colas, at just 14 years old, emerged as a standout, claiming gold in both the team and individual all-around events, as well as on the uneven bars, and bronze on the vault. Her teammate, Maïana Prat, also performed brilliantly, securing third place in the individual all-around and a European title on the beam.
Looking forward, these young athletes are setting their sights on the European Youth Olympic Festival in 2025, a stepping stone that could catapult them onto the world stage. The experience in Monaco is crucial preparation, not just for this event, but for what could be a bright future at the Olympic Games.
Inspiration Close to Home
Local gymnasts from Femina Sports Monaco have had the unique opportunity to observe and interact with these high-caliber athletes. This is a transformative experience for the students observing the training techniques, the atmosphere and the level of intensity.
As these young gymnasts flip, twist, and soar through the air, they are preparing for future competitions and building confidence. With this foundation of hard work, discipline, and a little bit of Monaco’s magic, the future of French gymnastics looks incredibly bright.
