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For Thomas, who hails from Canterbury, gymnastics was initially an alternative to ballet. After starting ballet as a young child, her mum recognised she had too much energy for the discipline, and at six years old she started gymnastics instead.
She started in recreational classes before coaches recognised her potential and moved her into a more competitive programme.
"Ballet was too chill and relaxed," said Thomas.
"Gymnastics matched my energy more. I wanted to do flips and cool stuff."
Her journey through competitive gymnastics has included multiple injuries and niggles, with motivation sometimes difficult to maintain.
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At the start of the year, Thomas hadn't thought competing at the Youth Olympic Games was a possibility. Now, she is looking forward to the experience in Dakar, particularly as it will be the first Games held in Africa.
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Meanwhile, Wellington gymnast William Davies, started the sport even younger. Inspired by his two older sisters, he started competitive gymnastics at four-years-old at Capital Gymnastics before moving to Hutt Valley Gymnastics.
Davies is currently in Year 13 at Wellington College, balancing his final year of school with the demands of competitive gymnastics.
"Staying disciplined, making a plan and sticking to the plan," is how he manages both commitments.
Next year Davies plans to move to Brisbane to train at a new club while studying through Massey Academy of Sport.
He enjoys the constant opportunities to improve in gymnastics, with new skills to learn and goals to work towards.
"Doing flips and stuff is a lot of fun," he said.
His progress has not been without setbacks. Last year, an incident on the parallel bars resulted in a broken hand in two places shortly before the national championships and Junior World Championships. His hand now has screws and a metal plate, and he no longer performs the skill that caused the injury.
Although the experience can still play on his mind, Davies focuses on trusting himself and the training he has put in.
Family support has also been an important part of his gymnastics career, particularly from his Dad.
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As they prepare for the Games, both gymnasts are looking forward to the opportunity to compete internationally and represent New Zealand.
For Davies, enjoying the competition is a priority.
"Enjoying it no matter what, these opportunities don't come around very often," he said.
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