CAPE TOWN – In a remarkable display of talent, dedication, and national pride, nine-year-old Isla Chiworeso from Boston (Bellville) has secured third place at the World Pole Art Championships held on 29 November in Cape Town. Competing in the junior varsity amateur category, this Grade 3 learner from Panorama Primary School has brought home bronze for South Africa in what marked a historic moment as the championships were hosted on African soil for the first time.
Isla’s journey into the world of pole art began in 2023 when she discovered a studio offering aerial acrobatics for children on Saturday mornings. What started as exploration of various aerial activities including hoop, silk, pole, and hammock quickly evolved into a genuine passion for the artistic and athletic demands of pole art.
“Isla had previously done aerial hoop and even competed in a competition, which eventually led her to pole art,” explains her mother, Tracy Chiworeso. The young athlete’s natural talent and determination were evident from the start, as she threw herself into mastering the technical skills paired with dance that make pole art so captivating.
The path to international competition required serious commitment from both Isla and her family. As a competitive athlete, Isla’s regular training schedule involved workouts two to three times a week as part of her gymnastics practice. However, in preparation for aerial competitions, she intensified her routine dramatically.
“She ramped up her routine to train four to five times a week, or even more, for two to three months prior to an event,” Tracy shares. Isla’s pole art training took place at Cape Town City Cirque in Gardens and the Pole and Aerial Fitness Studio in Edgemead, with sessions scheduled after school from 15:00 to 16:00., in the evenings from 20:00 to 21:00, and even on early Saturday mornings.
The family made special arrangements to accommodate this demanding schedule, with aftercare support helping Isla commute to afternoon sessions while Tracy personally ensured she could attend evening practices.
A multi-talented young athlete
Isla’s achievements extend far beyond pole art. She has already earned her Western Province colours in gymnastics, ranking 10th in the country at the WP Gymnastics Games in September 2025. Earlier this year, she also claimed double gold at the South African National Pole and Aerial Sports Competition, taking first place in Pole Art and second place in Hoop Aerial.
This track record of excellence demonstrates Isla’s exceptional athletic abilities and her dedication to aerial sports, making her bronze medal at the World Championships even more impressive.
Competing at the World Pole Art Championships 2025, hosted at the UCT Sports Centre in Cape Town, was an extraordinary experience for Isla and her family. The event being held in South Africa for the first time added special significance to her participation.
“It was an amazing experience for Isla and her family, witnessing international talent in the sport,” Tracy reflects. “Isla enjoyed meeting athletes from around the world who shared her passion for pole art. She was excited to view elite routines and perform herself.”
The competition showcased the global reach and growing recognition of pole art as a legitimate athletic discipline, with performers from numerous countries demonstrating incredible skill and artistry.
Despite her intense training schedule and competitive success, Tracy emphasises the importance of ensuring Isla maintains a well-rounded childhood. “We value balancing her passion for this sport with enjoying her childhood, often arranging time for family bonding and relaxation,” she explains.
Isla continues to participate in various activities including singing in the choir and athletics, while still finding time for family milkshake dates with her mom and school activities. This balanced approach has contributed to her success both in and out of the sporting arena.
Looking to the future
Isla’s bronze medal at the World Pole Art Championships represents just the beginning of what promises to be an exciting journey in aerial sports. Her passion for the technical skills and creative expression that pole art demands shows no signs of waning.
“She thrives on technical skills paired with dance, and her love for creativity – whether it’s making routines or performing – shows she’s dedicated to continuing her journey in this sport,” Tracy added.
