Most people only think of gymnastics when they think of the summer Olympics, but for some locals, it is something they live and breathe. Saturday, Flyers Gymnastics held its open house for registration and to raise money for competitions.

There were a line of cars waiting to be washed for the cause that could one day produce an Olympic gymnast. Holly Barile, owner and instructor at Flyers Gymnastics, was taking fall registrations at the event yesterday.

“This is a way for young people to learn self-discipline. They learn to work hard to overcome obstacles and when they overcome them, it gives them confidence to do other things. I think this carries over into other parts of their lives,” Barile said.

She said the car wash fundraiser will not only help the girls pay for trips to competitions in surrounding areas, but it will help fund a competition that will be held in Mount Airy in the spring.

Flyers Gymnastics has been in Mount Airy since 2002, and it has been located at 541-A W. Pine St., beside the N.C. Employment Security Commission office since 2004.

Barile teaches kids from ages 2 to 16 and up. She teaches balance beam, vaulting, uneven bars, floor exercises and tumble track for those interested in gymnastics and tumbling for cheerleaders.

“This really shows them how to face their fears. It also helps build physical fitness and self-confidence,” she said.

Barile said classes are filling up and registration is first-come, first serve.

Flyers Gymnastics mission is to “provide an environment that encourages children to strengthen their mind, body and spirit through the sport of gymnastics. Our goal is for each child to experience the power that is within them to achieve success in gymnastics and life.”

For more information on the program, call 786-1857.

Contact Mondee Tilley at mtilley@mtairynews.com or at 719-1930.