Local gymnastics gym celebrates Summer Olympics

SPARTA — Giant Gymnastics was one of over 1,000 clubs and teams nationwide to kick off year-long celebrations leading up to the 2016 Summer Olympic year.

Owners Jennifer and John Skorski opened their gyms in both Sparta and Hackettstown to their gymnasts and the public for two hours of free open gym play.

With two full packed sessions, over 60 children of all ages and abilities played on the balance beam, bars, floor, trampoline and vault, and every child walked home with ribbons from taking the rope climbing challenge.

After the success of the event, Giant Gymnastics decided their next event would include a Family Hour to accommodate younger gymnasts who wish to play.

“Open Gym sessions are for ages five and up, which leaves out the little ones who want to play, too,” said Coach Margaret Witt.

The Skorski’s plan to hold an event each month at the gym leading up to next Summer’s Olympics. Continuing in their tradition to help the community, the Skorski’s will hold their next event, “National Dance Day” to support the Food Pantry at the Sussex County Division of Social Services, which helps families throughout the county.

The event, on July 23, will feature a family hour of play from 7 to 8 p.m. and an hour of open gym for ages five and up from 8 to 9 p.m. Children are $5 for the hour but parents play for free with their child during the hour. However, if families and gymnasts attending bring in a canned good to help support the county food pantry, children can attend for just $3.

Suggested donations according to the Food Pantry’s webpage include shelf stable milk, cereal, peanut butter, jelly, crackers, meals in a can, soup, tuna or other proteins in a can. Personal items are always in need. Since the Food Locker is one of the only food pantries to stock pet food, pet food is also needed.

Registration for the event is required as spots will be limited for both hour long sessions.

For more information about classes and special events at Giant Gymnastics of Sparta, visit them online at www.GiantGymnastics.com or call 973-579-9400.