Like most eight year olds, Avah Buckley just wanted to be like her older siblings. But Avah’s 17-year-old sister Taylah set the bar pretty high as she represented Australia in three consecutive aerobics world championships.
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Last weekend, however, Avah came one step closer to being like her sister by placing fourth at the Federation of International Sport Aerobics and Fitness state finals. The result makes her eligible for a wildcard entry to the FISAF nationals.
Avah’s mother, Deanne Brown, said the result was particularly impressive given that her daughter has only been competing in aerobics since last year.
“She actually made it to nationals last year as part of a trio but she got this result with her singles routine,” Ms Brown said.
Avah still competes with her team, The Recruits, who hone their skills and routines at The Ultimate Beat in Newcastle.
The competitive aerobics scene is highly competitive, even among the younger grades, but Ms Brown said the camaraderie between The Recruits shines through even when the girls compete against one another as singles.
“Just at this last competition Avah knew her teammates were on the sidelines cheering for her,” Ms Brown said.
“As a parent it can be nerve-wracking because you want them to do well
“But both my girls always come off with a smile - they’re so self reflective and eager to improve so they even walk away positive.”
Avah won the FISAF Future Champions Series in Coffs Harbour in April and, if selected as a wildcard, will compete in the nationals in August.