Delta Gymnastics men's program head coach Mike Hood is in Nagaya, Japan this weekend to represent Canada as a judge at the 2014 Toyota International Gymnastics Tournament.
The two-day event attracts world class gymnasts from 11 countries, with four men and one female athletes representing Team Canada. The national team men's contingent includes B.C. athletes Ken Ikeda, Zachary Clay, Robert Watson joining Jackson Payne from Edmonton. Madison Copiak from Calgary is the lone Canadian female competing.
There are only seven judges in B.C. with the qualifications to be an official at this tournament.
"I am excited to once again attend this event," said Hood. "I will be working with the Canadian athletes during their training as well as being a judge at the event. It also serves as a great opportunity for me to keep up with the latest developments in contemporary gymnastics, which I can bring back and apply to our local and provincial training. It is also fun to meet old friends and new personalities from around the world." Japanese star Kohei Uchumira will represent the host country's squad. Hood is looking forward to his performance.
"It is an honour and a great responsibility to judge someone like Uchumira. He is a five-time Olympic medalist, winning a gold and four silver medals, and a 16-time world medalist. He is considered by many to be the greatest gymnast of all time."
During his time in Japan, Hood will be visiting other facilities and interacting with colleagues and officials from a variety of countries. "The sport continues to evolve and it is important for me to keep up with the latest changes. I can learn so much from what other countries are working on, new approaches to training, and coaching techniques," he adds.
Hood has been part of the Delta Gymnastics team since 2000.
"We support Mike's participation at this event as it provides him with an awesome opportunity for professional development. Our gym is lucky to have him as a highly experienced coach and manager," added Ana Arciniega, Delta Gymnastics Executive Director.
Delta Gymnastics is located in Ladner and offers recreational and competitive programs for ages 18 months to adults.
Winter registration is now open at www.deltagymnastics.com or by calling 604-943-0460.
