Athletes from Nishida’s Gymnastics, widely regarded as one of Jamaica’s leading gymnastics schools, delivered an outstanding performance at the 2026 Gasparilla Gymnastics Classic, held March 6–8 at the Tampa Convention Center in Tampa, Florida.
Competing against numerous clubs from across the United States and internationally, the Jamaican team returned home with 17 individual medals — nine gold, five silver and three bronze — along with strong team placements across several competitive levels.
Leading the way was the USAG Level 4 team, which captured first place overall, earning the team championship through consistently high-scoring routines on vault, uneven bars, balance beam and floor exercise.
Among the standout performances was Leila Bell (USAG Level 4), who achieved a rare milestone by earning two perfect 10.0 scores — on vault and the floor exercise — along with the All-Around Gold Medal. Perfect scores represent flawless execution under gymnastics judging standards and are seldom awarded in competition.
Teammate Dojanae Garwood (USAG Level 4) also secured an All-Around Gold Medal, delivering strong and consistent routines across all four apparatus to help propel the team to the championship title.
Leah Cowan (USAG Level 4) added to the team’s success by earning an All-Around Silver Medal, highlighting the depth of talent within the Level 4 squad.
In the USAG Level 3 division, Selah Price captured Gold on Vault with a powerful routine that helped the Level 3 team secure a fifth-place team finish.
The USAG Level 6 athletes also delivered a solid showing, placing fifth in the Small Team division against experienced competitors from across the region.
The meet formed part of the 38th annual Gasparilla Classic, a three-day competition sanctioned by USA Gymnastics and AAU Gymnastics that attracts athletes from multiple levels, including Level 1 for women, Level 3 for men and Xcel divisions.
For Nishida’s Gymnastics, the results reflect the continued growth of the programme and the strength of Jamaica’s developing gymnastics talent pool. The athletes represented their club with pride while gaining valuable experience at one of the region’s largest and most competitive invitationals.
With a team championship, multiple all-around titles and two rare perfect scores, the club wrapped up its 2026 season on a high note.
Coaches say the team is already setting its sights on next year’s competition.
“Watch out 2027 — we’re coming in hot.”
