MOUNT Cotton 10-year-old Mae Yates skipped home with seven medals from the 2024 Australian Rope Skipping Championships in Canberra late last month.
Mae is one of a team of 17 to compete as members of the Hot Shots club, based at Mount Cotton State School.
Mae’s mother Melissa Gibson said the team as a whole performed well, with an impressive tally of medals brought home.
Mae gained gold in double under speed relay, pairs freestyle, 4×30 speed relay, team freestyle and double Dutch styles, with bronze gained for individual freestyle and the overall national section for 10 years. Mae’s skipping partner is Jack Johnson, and teammates are Bella Shepherdson and Anna Turner.
Mae started with the school club in the Jump Rope for Heart program, later joining the club team under coach Taryn Hodgson.
To qualify for the national titles, Mae gained eight medals at state level, including a silver for overall skipper in her age group in Brisbane in June.
“Mae started so many sports, but just took to skipping,” Melissa said.
“I think it’s because she can be an athlete and move, but not realise she’s doing it. It’s all in the name of fun.”
Melissa praised Taryn for getting the best out of the young skippers.
“She gets a lot out of them – and quickly. And then these results encourage them to keep going. Mae tells me she still wants to skip when she’s 50.”
Melissa said the sport had also provided a lovely community, building friendships and confidence.
“Plus she trains so hard. She does four sessions a week and two gym sessions. And finally this hard work has paid off. She’s proud of herself.
“This is the first time she’s won gold. The gap is closing for Mae. She just stands there with a big, fat smile.”
