Sydney Hills Gymnastics located in the Hills District saw two of its Men’s Artistic Gymnasts, Lucas Engesser and Daniel Chalabov, selected to represent Australia at two international events. The 18th Austrian Future Cup was held in Linz (17/11/2023 – 18/11/2023) and the Olympic Hopes Cup in Brno Czech Republic (24/11/2023 – 26/11/2023).
The Austrian Future Cup saw more than 160 gymnasts from 18 nations and three continents showcase the pinnacle of men’s artistic gymnastics.
Lucas Engesser and Daniel Chalabov from Sydney Hills Gymnastics earned coveted spots on the Australian Team. Their exceptional routines helped to secure the Australian Team’s impressive 4th place overall. Individually, they clinched a combined total of five podiums.
His second time representing Australia, Daniel solidified his standing as an emerging international gymnast. He showcased his unwavering dedication earning him the 1st All-Around title. Daniel also earned Gold on Pommel Horse and Parallel Bars in his age group.
Reflecting on his achievement, 16-year-old Daniel stated, “Coming home with international medals after representing Australia feels motivating and rewarding after many years of training.”
Wearing the green and gold brought Lucas immense pride once again. Flourishing as a key member of the Australian Team, his outstanding tumbling skills took centre stage. These impressive skills earned Lucas a Gold medal on the Vault and a Silver medal for his Floor routine.
“It felt as though I’ve achieved one of my lifelong goals in gymnastics”, said 17-year-old Lucas while reflecting on returning home as an international gold and silver medallist.
Their dream competition tour continued onto the Olympic Hopes Cup. Day one saw Lucas finish in 4th place and Daniel in 6th place All Around. Their scores ensured that the Australian Team finished in 1st place.
Lucas said, “No one wants to let the team down. Being able to win Gold as a team showed that we kept our nerves and emotions hidden. We got out there to do what we trained for”.
In a proud moment for the Club, both Daniel (Gold) and Lucas (Silver) finished on the podium in the Pommel Horse final.
Daniel said, “Pommel was always my worst apparatus. I am proud that I have made significant improvements in consistency and execution through the year”.
Daniel also earned a silver medal for his outstanding Rings routine in the final.
Coach Vassili Trofimov, expressed that he was happy to see the boys show what they are capable of. “It feels amazing watching them enter this next stage while delivering stunning gymnastics”. As the Head Coach and Director of Sydney Hills Gymnastics, Vassili said “I am sure we will soon see many more of our young gymnasts follow a similar path. The inspiration of representing Australia is a long-term influence, and I believe it will drive many athletes forward to become better gymnasts.”
