Maegan Chant strikes gold at gymnastics World Cup in Cottbus, Germany

Maegan Chant strikes gold at gymnastics World Cup in Cottbus, Germany
Posted Sunday, March 24, 2013

COTTBUS, Germany -- Fifteen-year-old Maegan Chant of Waterdown, Ont., won the gold medal in the women’s floor exercise on Sunday, upsetting top qualifier Anna Dementyeva of Russia on the final day of competition at the third World Cup meet of the season.

After winning a bronze medal in the vault final on Saturday, Chant earned her second trip to the podium with a strong floor routine that included a double layout, a low piked full-in, triple spin, front tuck to double back tuck and a double pike dismount.

Chant topped the eight-woman final with a score of 13.750 points, followed by Dementyeva with 13.575 points and Noel Van Klaveren of the Netherlands in third at 13.475.

Many of the competitors seemed to be having trouble with a bouncy floor mat but Chant had no complaints.

“Every floor is a little bit different and this one didn’t cause me any problems,” said Chant.

“I had a lot of confidence going into the final and knew I had a good chance for a medal if I hit my routine.”

Chant has been one of the busiest gymnasts in the world this winter competing at four international events, including three World Cups, in the last month after moving up to the senior Canadian team following a stellar junior career.

“It’s tougher mentally than physically to compete so much and to be away from home for so long,” said Chant, who is coached by former Romanian star gymnast Cristina Bontas and her husband Gabi Tantaru at World Class Gymnastics in Hamilton, Ont.

“It’s been a real journey and I’ve learned a lot going up against so many more experienced gymnasts.  I’m looking forward to working hard to keep on improving.”

Chant will turn her attention now on getting ready for the Canadian championships in late May with the goal of winning a spot on the 2013 world championship team.