Reddam House Bedfordview's Mackenzie Mackay’s global debut filled with flips, focus and pride

Mackenzie Mackay, a Grade 8 student at Reddam House Bedfordview, has returned from her first international gymnastics competition with unforgettable memories, new milestones, and a message of resilience and perseverance.

Mackenzie competed in the Turin Acro Cup in Italy, an elite international acrobatic gymnastics competition. Representing Masters Gymnasts Club, she formed part of a trio in the 12–18-year-old age category, delivering performances that placed her team second after their first two routines. This allowed them to qualify for the final round, which was their ultimate goal for this competition.

“It was my first time competing overseas, so I was really excited, but also nervous because I didn’t know what to expect,” Mackenzie shared. “But when I heard the crowd cheering for us, it calmed me down and helped me focus on what we had trained so hard to do.”

The team trained rigorously for months leading up to the event - often six to seven days a week - fine-tuning their routines under the guidance of their coach. “I felt as prepared as we possibly could be, which gave us the confidence to perform,” she says.

Mackenzie says the first two routines were her proudest moments. “We were in second place after those, which was a huge milestone I never imagined reaching.” Although their final routine came with a few stumbles, she and her teammates pushed through with grace. “We didn’t give up or walk off. We carried on to the very end and I’m extremely proud of that.”

Beyond the competition floor, Mackenzie says the trip offered a wealth of learning opportunities. “I loved meeting other gymnasts and seeing how they train. Watching and learning from them is something we don’t often get to do back home.” She also fondly recalls the food and scenery, calling it “an experience I’ll never forget.”

A passionate gymnast and top academic performer, Mackenzie is one of two South African recipients of the prestigious Nsouli Scholarship, a global initiative by Inspired Education Group that supports outstanding young students through full scholarships and mentorship. She credits her school and the scholarship with helping her balance her academic and athletic commitments. “Reddam House has given me the time and support to focus on gymnastics,” she says. “Everyone’s been incredibly encouraging throughout this journey.”

Looking ahead, Mackenzie and her team are already preparing for next year’s World event. She also plans to speak at her school assembly to share her experience. “I hope it inspires others to follow their dreams too.”

Her advice to fellow young athletes is heartfelt: “Work hard and chase your dreams because anything is possible, as long as you give your best.”