‘I Did It’: Daniel McLean Reflects on African Championships Gold

The South African gymnast claimed his first senior international individual gold medal at the African Artistic Gymnastics Championships in Cameroon. South Africa (10 May 2026) – Team South Africa... The post ‘I Did It’: Daniel McLean Reflects on African Championships Gold appeared first on Good Things Guy.

May 10, 2026 - 13:12

‘I Did It’: Daniel McLean Reflects on African Championships Gold

The South African gymnast claimed his first senior international individual gold medal at the African Artistic Gymnastics Championships in Cameroon.

South Africa (10 May 2026) – Team South Africa wrapped up the 19th African Artistic Gymnastics Championships in Yaoundé, Cameroon, with an impressive 16-medal haul, headlined by a standout performance from Daniel McLean, who claimed gold in the Senior Men’s Floor Exercise final.

Daniel delivered a composed and emotional routine to secure the continental title, marking his first individual medal at the African Championships and his debut appearance at the senior level.

“When I realised I had won gold, it was just a moment of pure joy. I was up third in the rotation, there were eight of us in the final. When the last guy’s score came out, it just hit me. It was my first African Champs as a senior and my first individual medal at this level. I did cry a little bit, just a little bit. It was pure joy. I was super proud of myself and I just kept saying, ‘I did it.’ It was an amazing feeling.”

While the achievement has been widely celebrated as historic for South African gymnastics, Daniel was quick to provide context, pointing out the continuity of success in the discipline.

“I wouldn’t necessarily call it historic because there’s been another member who has won gold on floor before. But I think it’s more about keeping that streak going for South Africa. I’m very proud, and hearing the word ‘historic’ was special. It still hasn’t fully settled in yet, because it’s my first international individual gold.”

Daniel’s journey began at the age of five, inspired by his older sister.

“My sister got a free trial lesson at a gymnastics club and I just wanted to do everything she did. I started in 2010, moved into the high-performance group in 2015, and by 2019 I was representing South Africa internationally. It’s been a long journey, and now my focus is LA 2028.”

Despite competing individually, Daniel highlighted the strength of the South African team environment.

“We are competing individually, but also as a team. Everyone supports each other, we cheer for one another, and it gives us energy. Even though we come from different clubs, it feels like we’ve trained together for years.”

Looking ahead, Daniel is hopeful of selection for the Commonwealth Games later this year, alongside local competitions and national championships as he continues building toward his long-term Olympic dream.