Trials to AWG at PVGC

Trials for the Alberta Winter Games (AWG) were held December 13–14 at Pine Valley Gym Centre in Tawatinaw, where 169 Junior Olympic (JO) Level 6–7 Women’s Artistic Gymnastics (WAG) athletes, aged 11–16, competed for a coveted spot at the Games, scheduled for February 13-16, 2026, in the Lakeland Region.

PVGC extends its sincere thanks to the Alberta Gymnastics Federation (AGF) for selecting our facility as the host venue, and to Carolyn Foster of AGF for her exceptional coordination and support. We are also grateful to the judges, coaches, gymnasts, and their families, whose dedication and commitment were integral to the success of this event.

Special appreciation goes to AGF Chair of the Board Dawn Vande Vyvere, as well as Deputy Reeve Isaac Skuban, Councillor Sheri Provencal, and Councillor Francis Cloutier from Westlock County, and Town of Westlock Mayor John Kramer and Councillor Laurie Hodge, for being with us and presenting awards to the athletes throughout the two-day event. We also thank Westlock County and the Town of Westlock for providing souvenirs for the athletes.

Finally, we extend our heartfelt thanks to our volunteers and staff, whose hard work and dedication were essential to making this event a success.

The Kangal Cup: Celebrating Gymnastics, Community, and a Beloved Kangal

The Kangal Cup, a year-end artistic gymnastics fun meet, was an initiative at Pine Valley Gym Centre. Held in June 2024, the inaugural event brought together about 70 young women artistic gymnasts (WAG) to compete in the beautiful, world-class gymnastics facility located in Tawatinaw, AB.

Many wondered: Why Kangal Cup? The story dates back to 2016, when the Kriangkum family, owners of Pine Valley Resort and Pine Valley Gym Centre, welcomed a new furry member into their lives—a Kangal dog named Chewy. Kangals, a breed of Turkish shepherd dogs, are known for their impressive size, with adults weighing up to 220 pounds. Chewy quickly became a cherished part of the family, and the idea of hosting a fun gymnastics meet whimsically named the "Kangal Cup" began as a lighthearted suggestion.

Though years passed, the idea endured, and the family was determined to bring it to life. On June 23, 2024, that dream became a reality with the first Kangal Cup—a celebration of gymnastics, camaraderie, and Chewy’s heartwarming legacy.

With its unique story and vibrant spirit, the Kangal Cup has already left an indelible mark, bringing judges, coaches, athletes, families and fans together in the incredible setting of Pine Valley Gym Centre. The Kangal Cup will now become an annual event, with the next meet scheduled for Saturday and Sunday, June 28 and 29, 2025. Further details will be announced in the near future.

2024 WAG Compulsory Camp and Xcel Camp at PVGC

The 2024 WAG Compulsory Camp and Xcel Camp were held at Pine Valley Gym Centre on October 27 and November 3, respectively. Young competitive women gymnasts from across Northern Alberta attended the camps. PVGC would like to thank Alberta Gymnastics Federation for selecting us as the venue, and extend our appreciation to the coaches, athletes, and parents who participated in these events.