Ammanford girl competes at British Gymnastics Championships
After starting gymnastics three years ago, Anni competed in the Tumbling Level 4 Women competition for girls aged 9-10.
Anni competed in the Tumbling Level 4 Women competition for girls aged 9-10. (Image: Craig Maloney) Anni's father, Craig Maloney said: 'I am extremely proud. To see her wear the Welsh leotard was such a proud moment. She started at the age of six years old at Carmarthenshire School of Gymnastics in Cross Hands.
'She competed in the Welsh Championships at Cardiff Metropolitan University and finished in the top two which meant that she was able to compete in the British Championships.
Anni and her sporty family are from Ammanford. (Image: Craig Maloney) 'She likes gymnastics. She trains hard, is committed to it and enjoys competing. It was a lot of fun for her to compete at international level, and she really enjoyed the competition.
'Anni never went into gymnastics for that reason. We took her to her first classes and then we have just taken it from there. She has taken it in her stride but there are lots of opportunities and she can progress.'
Anni started gymnastics three years ago. (Image: Craig Maloney) However, Anni is from an active family as her parents and brother have all competed in sport.
Craig continued: 'Her brother, who is three years older than her, is chuffed that she represented Wales. He plays football, rugby and cricket and now he has extra motivation to try to compete at an international level as well.
'We are a local family in Ammanford that have played sport our whole life. So, seeing our children do the same has been very pleasing for us and it's something we hope to continue.
'We come from a sporting background, and we are passionate about it. It's important for kids to get into sport. It gives you that sense of discipline and enjoyment. You meet people and you learn skills that you can use for the rest of your life.'
The 9-year-old previously competed in the Welsh Championships at Cardiff Metropolitan University and finished in the top two. (Image: Craig Maloney) Following Anni's achievement, the Ammanford family have expressed their gratitude to Carmarthenshire School of Gymnastics and all the coaches involved in Anni's development.
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