Langley's biggest gymnastics competition reached a milestone in the number of athletes taking part as it also unveiled a rebranding starting in 2026.
"We're elevating the competition to new heights and are excited to introduce its new name: the Langley Grand Invitational," said Langley Gymnastics Foundation board chair Ryan Hamilton.
This year, more than 1,200 athletes were registered with two dozen clubs joining the Langley Gymnastics Foundation for four days of competition – coming from places such as Campbell River and Powell River, Kelowna and Prince George, as well as throughout the Lower Mainland.
The event was formerly known as the Christy Fraser Memorial Invitational, named for a young girl who loved the sport.
Through the years, the event to honour the memory of Christy, who passed away at the age of 12 in August of 1992 after contracting e. coli, has grown from 170 athletes competing at the Langley Secondary school gymnasium in its first year, to more than 1,000 athletes competing for top honours in 2024.
Her mom, Lory Fraser, spearheaded the CFMI from its founding 32 yeas ago, and remains an active member of the foundation board. She was on site again this year to see the young athletes trying their best.
While the competition has always had the traditional honours and awards based on skill and scores, it had a unique facet. Lory would single out young athletes for their sporting behaviour, support of others, and positivity, no matter their skill level.
Lory is proud of the legacy of her little girl. No longer having the workload of organizing the CFMI, Lory is creating new chapters.
Her grown sons are trying to convince her to travel and have some fun, but she's enjoying working in real estate. During COVID, she obtained her real estate credentials at UBC.
"I love it, something I always wanted to do," she said.
The foundation lauded the many people involved in the event, including the parents sacrificing for their kids, the coaches, and volunteers – but mostly the athletes.
"Each year, LGF’s invitational serves as a premier event in the gymnastics community, fostering athletic growth, camaraderie, and unforgettable memories," said foundation executive director Jennifer Coimbra.
"This year, the competition introduces a special new honour – the grand sportsmanship award. One athlete from each session will receive this distinguished recognition for exemplifying respect, team spirit, grace, and kindness throughout the competition."
Invitational results were not available before press-time which was early due to the Family Day holiday.
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