GUAM GYMNAST SHINES IN SOUTHERN REGIONALS

Guam beams with pride as 8-year-old Ava Skye Datu Jasmin, originally from Guam and now residing in Florida, continues to make her mark in competitive gymnastics with Panhandle Perfection.

At the 2026 NGA Southern Regional Championships held this past weekend in Georgia, Ava delivered a standout performance, earning 2nd place on balance beam and placing 7th All-Around against top competitors from across the southeastern United States.

Earlier this season, she also earned an impressive 3rd place All-Around finish at the state competition in Louisiana, showcasing her consistency and skill across multiple events.
Her strong showing at regionals has earned her a spot at the NGA National Championships in Orlando, where she will compete against top gymnasts from across the country.

Ava’s achievements highlight her dedication, consistency, and the pride she brings to Guam while continuing her journey in the United States.

“We’re so proud of Ava. She works incredibly hard, and it’s been really special to watch her grow in something she truly loves. She balances school with 3 to 3.5-hour practices three times a week and stays so committed. As parents, we just try to support what she’s passionate about and help her keep that balance. And honestly, gymnastics is everywhere in our house—cartwheels in the living room and constant reminders that the couch is not a beam. On competition days, we just let her go out, have fun, and do what she loves—that’s the best part for us,” said parents Ali and Zac Flores.

Q&A with Ava

Who are your favorite gymnasts?
My favorite gymnasts are Aleah Finnegan and Simone Biles. I also really look up to my teammate Logan because I get to train with her and learn with her every day.

What do you like to do outside of gymnastics?
When I’m not doing gymnastics, I like to relax by watching TV or riding my bike and eating snacks. My favorite treats are honey buns and Chick-fil-A. Gymnastics keeps me really busy, so that’s what I spend most of my time doing

What song gets you hyped before competition?
The song that gets me super hyped before competition is Sunroof by Nicky Youre and dazy. It makes me feel happy and ready to go!

What are you most excited about at competitions?
I like competing and seeing how everyone does. I also really like traveling and going on road trips.
It’s so fun going on road trips! One day I’m in a different state, and the next day I’m back at school doing math!

How did you feel when you made it to nationals?
When I found out I made it to nationals, I was super surprised and really excited! I was like, “Wait… really?!” It made me so happy.

What’s your favorite part of gymnastics?
My favorite part of gymnastics is my coach Allie and my friends. They make practice fun, and we always have a good time together.

What’s your favorite event?
My favorite event is vault because it’s fast and fun! And after I land, I just want to lay on the mat because it feels so cold and nice.

What’s your favorite skill?
My favorite skill is front tucks because they’re really fun and make me feel like I’m flying

What are your goals in gymnastics?
My dream is to be a professional gymnast and hopefully go to the Olympics one day!