Grace and Sophia Thao, 12-year-old twins from Brisbane, are set to represent Australia at the 2025 World Jump Rope Championships in Kawasaki, Japan, scheduled for July.

They will be part of a contingent of 141 Australian athletes, known as the Ropearoos, who are expected to compete alongside over 4,000 participants from more than 30 countries.

The twins, of Hmong descent, recently joined their local jump rope club, Crestmead Super Sonics, in 2023, where they have practiced diligently, participating in various events including speed relay and freestyle.

"Jump roping is fun; it helps us stay healthy and enjoy sport," Sophia stated.

The competition marks their first appearance at a world-level event.

Jump rope has evolved beyond a simple recreational activity into a competitive sport internationally.

Athletes at these championships compete across various categories, including freestyle, single and double Dutch speed skipping, and team events.

Claire George, head of the Australian delegation and representative of Skipping Australia, expressed confidence in the team's ability to perform well, noting that the championships will also include the Junior World Championships and International Open Tournament being held concurrently.

George highlighted the accessibility of the sport, stating that jump rope can be enjoyed by individuals across all fitness levels.

However, she pointed out that participation varies by region, with some states such as South Australia, Western Australia, and Tasmania lacking representation.

The Crestmead Super Sonics, led by president and coach Cherie Duffy, have sent eight athletes to join the Ropearoos team, marking a significant milestone for the club, which was established as part of a community initiative five years ago.

Duffy emphasized the importance of self-belief in her athletes, sharing that the sport provides lessons beyond physical skills.

Australia has a strong track record in international jump rope, having secured 52 medals, including 15 gold, at the 2023 World Championships held in the United States.

Although Australia is recognized as a leading nation in the sport, George noted the competitive landscape posed by countries such as Hong Kong, Japan, Belgium, China, and the United States.

There is a concerted effort spearheaded by the International Jump Rope Union to have the sport included in the Olympic program, with the 2032 Brisbane Games being a target for potential inclusion.

Despite some state government funding support, securing national infrastructure funding remains a challenge for promoting growth in the sport.

As the twins prepare for their upcoming championship, they also aspire to inspire other members of their Hmong community.

Their mother, Maisy Thao, supports their ambitions while balancing their educational commitments.

She stressed the importance of parental encouragement in nurturing their interests, asserting that sacrifices made for their sporting pursuits are worthwhile regardless of the outcomes at the championship.