The 16 girls from the Thornton-based academy Oxygen All Stars were taking part in the Asia Pacific Challenge.

Competing against teams from Hong Kong, China, the Philippines and from Tasmania, their big win has been rated “the cheerleading event that put the Maitland area on the map.”

Oxygen All Stars owner Courtney Turton said their success overseas was a major success.

“This is cheerleading American style; it is very demanding and very athletic,” Ms Turton said.

“It is not the sort of thing you see at football games.

“For us, it is wonderful to win at the international level and this has really put Maitland on the map as far as cheerleading is concerned.

“This was also the first time our group – girls aged from12 to 15 – has travelled overseas too.

“I am really proud of all of them and also of their coaches who gave up so much to achieve our win.”

Ms Turton believed their key to success was the time they all put into their training.

“It was tough for them all,” she said.

“As part of their preparation to face humid Hong Kong weather, they did a lot of running to condition their bodies before they left Australia.

“This was one of the biggest wins we have ever had.”

Stephanie Mortel, whose daughter Olivia was in the team, was happy to sing the team members’ praises.

“They spent six months training three times a week, had a nine-hour flight, spent 90 minutes working on their hair and make-up – for a two-and-half minute routine,” she said.

“But it was all worth it.”