Hendon’s Amaranta Chavez has dreams of becoming a world-class rhythmic gymnast and a Just Giving campaign has been created to help her in that quest.

Ham & High: Hendon's Amaranta Chavez is an aspiring rhythmic gymnast (pic Daniela D'Amato)Hendon's Amaranta Chavez is an aspiring rhythmic gymnast (pic Daniela D'Amato) (Image: Archant)

The 16-year-old trains with the London Academy of Gymnastics and Dance (LAGAD) in Muswell Hill and is among the top five elite gymnasts in Great Britain.

But the costs of training and competing at the top level make it hard for her to attend tournaments.

Jessica Shenton, director of LAGAD, said: “Our former head coach came running into my office one day and said you have to come and see this girl, she is just so talented.

“We were blown away by her potential. She is just exquisite to watch and is absolutely driven to do her best.

“She has great talent, dedication, determination and drive, but not enough money and this fund would allow her to train without the fear.”

Chavez trains up to 20 hours per week, but coming from a single-parent household, she has had to miss vital sessions and competitions at times.

Mum Therese added: “The travel, training and competitions nationally and internationally cost a lot of money.

“I try and support her but we need to raise more funds to allow her to access all the training she needs. This would lift a lot of financial pressure.”

Amaranta said: “My dream and main aim is to win medals for my country internationally at competitions like the World Championships and World Cup. If I have enough funding I would love to be able to train towards the Olympic Games.”

Visit justgiving.com/crowdfunding/amaranta to support the appeal.