Gemini Twirl Team is a 33-member baton twirling team based in Poole, Dorset, with athletes competing across the UK. The team is affiliated with United Twirl England, the Rhythmic Dance Twirl Association and the British Baton Twirling Federation, and trains throughout the year for national competitions.
Sixteen Gemini athletes have been selected to compete as part of a composite Jockey-themed Pom Team, which brings together more than 40 athletes from baton twirling teams across the UK. The team hopes to be selected to represent England at the World Federation National Baton Twirling Association World Championships in Lignano, Italy, in March 2027.
As baton twirling is not a funded sport, athletes are responsible for covering their own competition entry fees, travel and accommodation when representing England. For the Gemini athletes, the opportunity would be a prestigious achievement and, for some, a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
To help support the athletes on their journey, Gemini Twirl Team is raising funds through a number of activities, including a raffle for which the team is seeking prize donations from local businesses.
The team will also host a Public Showcase Fete on 27 September, featuring displays, stalls, food and games. The event will provide an opportunity for the local community to see the athletes in action while helping to raise funds towards the World Championships.
The team has been part of the local community since 1990 and has represented Poole at national and international levels. It describes baton twirling as more than a sport, but as an inclusive community for people of all ages and abilities, including para-athletes.
The fundraising campaign is being led in part by team member Stacey-Louise Bottomley, who returned to baton twirling and Gemini after a 17-year break. Having previously helped with fundraising for the team in 2023, she said returning to the sport had been one of the best decisions of her life and provided an important activity alongside her role as a carer for her son.
The team is inviting local businesses to support its fundraising efforts through raffle prize donations. In recognition of their support, participating businesses will be publicly thanked at the showcase event and across social media, with opportunities also available to display posters and leaflets.
For more information about the fundraising campaign and to support the team, visit www.gofund.me/ddf4b539f.
