Baton Twirlers represent country in European Cup
By Aideen O'Flaherty
A LOCAL baton twirling group, which has 28 members, has seen nine of their young athletes be selected to represent Ireland in the Baton Twirling European Cup this summer.
The Aylesbury-based St Martin’s Twirlers group was founded in 2004 to give people in the area a chance to participate in the sport, which combines dance and gymnastics and helps participants to improve their agility and coordination while using a metal baton.
Members from St Martin's Twirlers who will participate in the European Cup
Nine of the club’s twirlers qualified for the Baton Twirling European Cup last month, all of whom will be competing in the Junior Artistic Group category, while 16-year-old St Martin’s twirler Ellie Nolan will also be performing as a soloist in the Women’s Junior Two-Baton category.
This summer will mark the first time in the club’s history that any of their athletes will be competing on the Ireland team.
Toni Thompson from St Martin’s Twirlers told The Echo: “Our team recently returned from England after another successful competition.
“Following on from the success the club had at the Irish trials our team were successful in all solo and team events, including returning with the major club awards.
Strength to strength
“This year the club has gone from strength to strength.
“Our training schedule continues with dedication and commitment.
“We are now preparing for our IBTA Irish Open and the Euro Twirls, which are all in July.”
The Baton Twirling European Cup competition will take place in the National Indoor Arena in Abbotstown, from July 4 to 8.
