Allstars have a skip in their step
IF YOU thought being able to do a free-standing flip was impressive wait until you see the whole new level these kids have taken it to as the sport of skipping gains popularity.
Stanthorpe team the Allstars Skipping group are making their presence known and are now preparing to make their way to compete in the United States after great success at the National Titles at the Australian Institute of Sport in Canberra during October last year.
Coach of seven years Jo Kidd said from the team of 30 12 were fortunate enough to be competing in the US.
"We leave on July 22 where they will compete in the Junior Olympics in Huston, Texas, and from there we fly to Tampa, Florida, for the World Championships," Ms Kidd said.
"The group of 30 skippers train five mornings and three afternoons totalling between 20-23 hours each per week.
"They are very, very fit.
Ms Kidd said the group is currently preparing for the State Titles in Brisbane at the end of April.
"Our fastest members can have the rope go under their feet 180 times in 30 seconds.
"They also do freestyle which is a series of gymnastics ticks done individually and in teams of two or four.
Father-of-three Roger O'Brien will be sending Jacob, 12, Morgan, 10, and Brooke, eight, to the US.
"When you get these opportunities especially for all three kids you have to make the most of them," he said.
A fundraising Trivia Night will be held at the Stanthorpe Civic Centre on Friday, May 11, at 7pm. Tickets cost $8.
