01 Feb 2017
Doha, 2 Feb 2017. The British gymnastics men’s team rounded up their training camp in Qatar with a tour of the world renowned Aspire Academy. The delegation was led by Head National coach for Men, Eddie Van Hoof MBE alond with National Coach, Barry Collie and included amongst other gymnasts 19 year old Brinn Bevan who competed for Team GB in the Rio Olympics as well as 2012 Olympic medallist, Sam Oldham.
The Brits have been preparing for the forthcoming European championship for ten days in Qatar at the invitation of Qatar Gymnastics Federation and rounded up their time in Doha with a visit to the world renowned Aspire Academy.
Commenting after the tour Men’s Head National Coach, Eddie Van Hoof MBE said “Aspire Academy is just excellent. The decision to come and training in Doha was an easy one, as Qatar will host the World Championships in 2018. We wanted to experience Qatar as part of our longer term preparations through to the World Championships. Just to get a feel for the environment including the exceptional facilities at Aspire and the country, added to which the hospitality has been fantastic. The National Training gymnasium and facilities have been first rate and everybody has had a great experience, as we bond and develop our total team to take on Tokyo.”
National Coach, Barry Collie added, “The overall training was exceptional with all gymnasts stepping up and working hard to learn new skills and the centre were excellent hosts. This visit to the Aspire Academy where the 2018 Gymnastics World Championships are due to be held is a great opportunity for the team and all of us to try and visualise where the competition will be held. Aspire has been very hospitable and allowed the team to do a strength and conditioning session in the gym as well as access the pool for our recovery and a bit of down time. This place Aspire Academy is incredible”.