Christine Blanchard from the Aspire Gymnastics Club in Hull has been awarded the 2026 Lifetime Contribution Award, sponsored by the Turmeric Co.
Christine Blanchard was among the winners at the British Gymnastics Awards
A Hull gymnastics stalwart has won a prestigious title at the British Gymnastics Awards.
Christine Blanchard from the Aspire Gymnastics Club in Hull has been awarded the 2026 Lifetime Contribution Award, sponsored by the Turmeric Co.
This award recognises someone who has gone above and beyond the call of duty in their service to gymnastics for 25 years or more. Their contribution in helping people enjoy and benefit from the sport may have been in a voluntary capacity or paid work (e.g. club leadership or administration, official, coaching, competitions, events etc).
Christine has dedicated over 40 years to gymnastics, making a lasting impact as a coach, volunteer, and leader. Her journey began at Darlington Gymnastics Club, helping as a parent before passing her first coaching qualifications. Since then, she has continually developed her skills, including Level 3 General Gymnastics, Women’s Artistic Gymnastics, and Pre-school coaching.
Christine’s influence grew over the years as she coached at South Holderness Gymnastics Club, taking on increasing responsibility until she was running the club. She organised displays, competitions, and the annual Club Championships, celebrating gymnasts’ achievements in a supportive, fun environment. Alongside this, she volunteered in local schools, supporting gymnastics in Rock Challenge performances and after-school clubs, while balancing a full-time career outside of gymnastics.
Christine said: “I would like to thank British Gymnastics for giving me this award. I am amazed yet delighted to receive it. My 40 years plus in our sport have been an absolute joy and I have many incredible memories. Indeed, I am still making memories.
“I would like to reinforce the message that gymnastics is for everyone. This includes every type of person of every age and ability, from the beginners to the elite and all in between. I would like to see everyone enabled to join in and experience what has always been my passion.”
As a founding member of Aspire Gymnastics Club, Christine helped create a dedicated gymnastics facility in Hull, merging South Holderness with another club to provide a community hub that now serves over 750 members. She serves as a Director and Club Secretary, coaching gymnasts across participation, development, Gymnastics for All, and Intermediate levels. Her involvement is hands-on, from coaching to administration, event organisation, judging, and creative projects such as festivals and decorated maypoles.
Christine has been a strong advocate for inclusion throughout her career. She established a Disability Adults session over ten years ago, and continually ensures accessibility for all gymnasts, regardless of age or ability. She has also supported boys’ gymnastics provision in the region and championed initiatives like the Rise scheme, organising inclusive competitions and fun events that encourage confidence, participation, and community spirit.
Christine’s energy, passion, and selflessness have shaped generations of gymnasts and volunteers. She embodies the values of dedication, inclusivity, and leadership, leaving a legacy that continues to inspire both children and adults within the sport.
British Gymnastics CEO Sarah Powell said: “The 2026 British Gymnastics Awards recognise and celebrate the exceptional people, delivering, participating, or supporting the wonderful sport of gymnastics. This year’s finalists embody the passion, dedication, and care that ensure gymnastics stays enjoyable, safe, and accessible for all, creating positive change for individuals and communities.
“To all our finalists and winners, congratulations on this outstanding achievement. Your commitment inspires us every day, and you should feel incredibly proud of the impact you’ve made. Thank you for everything you do.”
The 2026 British Gymnastics Awards recognise exceptional people and organisations that help keep gymnastics enjoyable, safe, and open to everyone, making a positive contribution to individuals, local communities, and wider society. Visit British Gymnastics Awards for more information.