Scottish Disability Sport Week 2024 | Judging
As Scottish Disability Sport Week returns for 2024, we spoke to brevet women’s artistic judge Kirsty Burt about her judging journey and experiences with disabled gymnasts in competition.
The start of her judging career
“I began judging at the age of 16 when I was still competing as a gymnast. My gymnastics club needed some more judges in the club and thought it was something I would enjoy and would be good at so sent me on a judging course. It took some time during the course to grasp all the concepts but once I understood it, I absolutely loved judging.
“I have been very lucky to have some amazing mentors who have helped me along the way. I judge all levels from beginners starting their gymnastics journey through to senior gymnasts competing at international competitions. Judging has taken me to some fantastic places and I have made some great friends along the way.”
First experiences of disability gymnastics
“Although I was previously aware of it, I first got involved with disability gymnastics at the age of 18 when I joined City of Glasgow Gymnastics Club. I have been involved in lot of different aspects working with disability gymnasts including coaching and judging, helping develop a competition structure and an abroad display trip.”
On judging those with a disability and advice to new judges
“For someone starting out in judging, I would say keep practicing and asking questions. You can’t expect to know everything immediately but attending lots of competitions and watching lots of gymnastics at all levels will help. Work with more experienced judges and learn from them. As for judging with the disability adaptations, there is no need to be scared. As a judge you will end up judging with lots of different rules and levels.
“The disability code provides more choice and options for gymnasts to find skills which suit their abilities. There are some extra supports and adaptations where required but the fundamentals remain the same as they are very similar to the various mainstream levels.”
Hearing the news of Para Gymnastics declared a discipline
“It will be exciting to see the new Para Gymnastics code in action. I think having it as an official discipline will bring more people into the sport and also raise the level so we will see even more incredible gymnastics.”
Further comments on the role
“Many people are not aware that judging, especially in the UK, is a voluntary role. It can be a very rewarding experience; it challenges the brain and it can be wonderful seeing gymnasts compete and achieve their goals. If anyone has watched a gymnastics event and wondered how the scores are calculated or would be interested in getting involved, we are always ready to welcome new judges.”
Thank you to Kirsty for sharing her experience and knowledge. If you would like to share your story contact communciations@scottishgymnastics.org and join in with this campaign week across social media using #ScottishDisabilitySportWeek