PRPA Helps Provide New Gymnastics Equipment for Prince Rupert Athletes of All Ages

EFFECTIVE OCTOBER 30, 2025

PRINCE RUPERT, BRITISH COLUMBIA – The Prince Rupert Gymnastics Association, in partnership with the Prince Rupert Port Authority’s (PRPA) Community Investment Fund, is celebrating new equipment to enhance and expand programming for gymnasts of all skill levels, from toddlers to adults. This is the fourth collaboration between the organizations, bringing PRPA’s total contributions to $225,000. 

The newly acquired equipment includes a vaulting table, springboard, pommel horse for the boys’ competitive program, bars and beam for the girls’ competitive program, and mats to support all gym activities, which include partnerships with local daycare providers and school groups.

“This equipment has allowed us to complete our facility and develop more programming and opportunities for community members to access recreational and competitive gymnastics,” said Jackie Touchet, Prince Rupert Gymnastics Association President. “We are grateful for the longstanding support from PRPA’s Community Investment Fund that has enabled us to grow to operate one the best gymnastics facilities in northern BC.”

“The Prince Rupert Gymnastics Association has consistently demonstrated its commitment to enhancing indoor recreational activities for youth in our community,” said Shaun Stevenson, President & CEO, Prince Rupert Port Authority. “This investment helps it further expand its user base and continue its evolution as a key youth sports and recreation provider on the North Coast.”

Established as a non-profit society in 2014 to build gymnastics in the community, the Prince Rupert Gymnastics Association currently includes 290 members and employs 13 full and part time staff. Over the past decade, it’s grown into a 12,000 square foot facility, offering classes six days per week. Programming involves athletes with disabilities, children in care, and a competitive team of 30 youth who participate in numerous regional and provincial competitions. With its full complement of equipment, the organization has also hosted special events and competitions involving gymnasts from across BC.  

PRPA’s Community Investment Fund has contributed to several northwest BC sports and recreation organizations including Prince Rupert Youth Soccer Association, Prince Rupert Seamen Rugby Club, Prince Rupert Curling Club, Prince Rupert Golf Club, Prince Rupert Racquets Association, School District 52, City of Prince Rupert, Prince Rupert Scout Group, Metlakatla Governing Council, My Mountain Co-op/ Shames Mountain, Terrace Off Road Cycling Association, Smithers Golf Course, and Snow Valley Nordic Ski Club.