Maine Academy of Gymnastics (MAG) will be holding its annual American Flyer’s Cup, sponsored by Olympia Sports, March 17 and 18. Gymnastic teams from all over New England will compete throughout the weekend.
    Traditionally, the meet is held at MAG’s training facility, but this year it has been moved to Southern Maine Community College gymnasium in South Portland to accommodate more gymnasts and more spectators.
    More than 200 gymnasts of all abilities, ages 6-18 will compete throughout the weekend (see below for meet schedule). The Level 4, 5 and 6 gymnasts will perform compulsory routines while the higher level gymnasts, Levels 7 through 10, will be judged on their optional routines. Top-finishing individuals as well as highest scoring teams will be recognized with trophies and/or medals.
    Gymnastics is a sport that builds a foundation for healthy fitness habits to last a lifetime. Girls and boys who take part in gymnastics, whether competitively or recreationally, learn the physical and mental benefits of the sport and generally continue on that active path throughout their lives. In a society of sedentary young people, these athletes are the extreme opposite. Many members of the MAG gymnastic team train 25-30 hours per week for 12 months of the year to achieve their goals in the gym. In addition to their dedication to the sport, all of the gymnasts translate their motivation, hard work and discipline to their studies by maintaining good grades at school as well.         For more information and to view a schedule of events, visit: www.maineacademy.com/american-flyers.shtml.