At just 12 years old, Jhodelle Mallari Chavez, a Filipina artistic gymnast from Naples, Italy, continues to shine in the Italian gymnastics scene.
Recently, Jhodelle clinched 1st place in the Individual Women’s Artistic Gymnastics A5 Category at the Regional Competition in Naples. This victory adds to her growing list of accolades, as she has consistently dominated Gold A1–A5 Regionals and is a three-time finalist in the Italian National Championships.
Her journey into gymnastics began at the age of five when she was discovered by coach Monica degli Uberti, president of CAG Napoli. Jhodelle’s mother, Jonalyn Chavez, fondly recalls the serendipitous moment that changed their lives:
“We were on the metro going home when we noticed someone watching us. Then coach Monica approached us and said she saw great potential in Jody for artistic gymnastics.”
Born in Naples with roots in Lipa, Batangas, Jhodelle credits her parents, Rodel and Jonalyn Chavez, for instilling in her the values of hard work and perseverance. What started as a hesitant step into a gym has blossomed into a journey marked by regional championships and national-level competitions.
Jhodelle has also trained at the Gymnastics Association of the Philippines’ training center and is set to become eligible for the national training pool next year.
Her skills and achievements not only highlight her potential but also strengthen her reputation in Italian gymnastics tournaments.
Now, Jhodelle is gearing up for her next big challenge when she competes in the 2nd Regional Competition in March to qualify for the Italian National Competition in May 2025—a competition where she has claimed the championship title for three consecutive years.
With her incredible accomplishments at such a young age, Jhodelle Mallari Chavez is proving that the future is boundless for this talented Filipina gymnast.
