Swiss Gymnastics: Leufen Wins Gold, Hauser & Schefer Medal
A weekend of rhythmic gymnastics competition saw athletes from the RG Südostschweiz and RG Ems groups achieve notable results. The events, held across multiple days, showcased individual skill and team coordination, with performances ranging from seasoned national team members to young, emerging talents.
Individual Performances Shine
Amy Hauser’s Debut
Eight-year-old Amy Hauser, representing RG Südostschweiz, competed in her first event, performing routines without apparatus, with a hoop, and with a ball. Hauser achieved a score of 14.950 in the apparatus-free routine, placing 14th. She secured 13.733 points with the hoop, finishing 12th, and a score of 14.183 with the ball, earning her 9th place. Her overall performance resulted in a 10th-place finish.
Leni Leufen’s All-Around Success
Leni Leufen, a 17-year-old athlete from the U18 National squad and also representing RG Südostschweiz, demonstrated a strong comeback performance. Starting with the hoop and receiving 18.233 points for an initial 8th-place ranking, Leufen improved with the ball, scoring 21.850 points despite some minor uncertainties. Her standout performance came with the clubs, earning the highest score of the competition – 25.050 points – and propelling her to 2nd place in the All-Around competition.
Leufen’s success continued into the apparatus finals, where she won gold with the clubs and silver with the ball.
RG Ems G4’s Collaborative Effort
The RG Ems G4 group, including 19-year-old Lea Schefer, participated in their first competition together following the closure of the RG St.Gallen training facility. The group, now training in Domat/Ems, performed a routine with three hoops and two pairs of clubs. Their first attempt yielded 17.700 points, while the second run saw some deductions, resulting in 12.467 points. Despite the challenges, the group was awarded a silver medal.
Looking Ahead
The coming weeks will see these athletes competing in Windisch/Brugg and Zug, with another competition scheduled for early March in Domat/Ems. Leni Leufen also faces upcoming selection competitions in St.Gallen and Magglingen, which could determine her qualification for the European Championships.
Frequently Asked Questions
What apparatus did Amy Hauser compete with?
Amy Hauser competed without apparatus, with a hoop, and with a ball.
What is Leni Leufen’s status within the national program?
Leni Leufen is an athlete within the U18 Nationalkader.
Where does the RG Ems G4 group now train?
The RG Ems G4 group now trains in Domat/Ems, following the closure of the RG St.Gallen training facility.
How important is consistent training location for team cohesion in rhythmic gymnastics?