A jump to success at the World Uni Games

Congratulations to post-graduate Design student Max Renaud, who has been selected to represent New Zealand and Otago Polytechnic in Men's Artistic Gymnastics at the FISU World University Games in July.

It's one of the largest multi-sport events in the world (second only to the Olympic Games in terms of numbers), and will bring together student athletes from 150 countries for 2 weeks of competition across Germany.

Max juggles around 20 hours a week of gym training with his studies towards a Bachelor of Design (Honours).

He graduated with a Bachelor of Culinary Arts from Otago Polytechnic in 2022, and may be familiar to some ākonga and kaimahi as part of the friendly team at Eden Cafe in The Hub.

The 22 year old took up gymnastics at the age of 7, and has dedicated much of the last 15 years to the sport.  But he initially retired as a junior international gymnast in 2019, and didn't think he'd return to the sport he grew up with.

"To make it back to an International level after a 3 year retirement post-high school is an absolute dream come true," says Max.

The Dunedin Gymnastics Academy athlete has been selected as part of a 5-strong NZ Men's team, and is the only representative from a polytechnic in the gymnastics lineup.

Max describes his selection as a "massive achievement" which has motivated him to train even harder.

He's looking forward to showcasing Otago and New Zealand on the world stage, but admits time and money are scarce resources for him.

"Gymnastics is a severely underfunded sport in New Zealand, and this trip is estimated to cost around $10,000."

"Within the Gymnastics community I also judge, coach, and choreograph, all of which I am putting towards my trip. But more help is always appreciated."

The World University Games will be Max's official senior international debut for New Zealand, and he says the competition's shaping up to be one that defines his career as an athlete for the foreseeable future.

Max Renaud has set up a Givealittle page to help support his journey, with funds going towards accommodation, travel, and administrative fees for the event in Germany.