By Emily Stonehouse

“If you build it, they will come.”

That’s the mindset of Kathy Judson as she shared the iconic Field of Dreams quote, in reference to her newest project: a gymnastics gym in the heart of Haliburton. “It just feels right.”

Judson is a lifelong athlete, coach, and a mother of two active girls. Before moving to Haliburton County, she was the owner of two separate gyms, and has kickstarted sports programs in corners all over the world, including the Haliburton Grassroots Athletics for women and youth in the area.

So when she saw a gap in what Haliburton County was able to offer in terms of programming around the sport her kids’ love, she saw an opportunity. “This is part of my calling,” she said. “And if we build it, all the pieces will fall into place.”

After years of leaving the county to shuttle her kids to training and competitions, Judson noted that not only was the drive getting tiresome, but her economic impact was leaving the community. “I was doing my grocery shopping, buying gifts for upcoming birthday parties, all while the girls were in gymnastics,” she said. “Having our Haliburton families stay in Haliburton is so beneficial to the economy.”

Judson launched a Haliburton Gymnastics page on Facebook, and received an outpouring of local support around the initiative. “It just goes to show that there are people here who want this,” she said. “The community really does come together when you need some help. That’s why I love it here.”

Judson recently secured a loan from the Haliburton County Development Corporation for $100,000 towards startup costs. This has also allowed Judson to move forward with the lease of a building on Industrial Park Road.

The next step is equipment: a stage where Judson is making sure she’s thorough and well-read on the requirements. “I want to make sure that no corners are cut there,” she said. “So there are still some question marks around that.”

While the programming will be largely focused on Haliburton County youth, there will be opportunities for adults, seniors, and pre-school classes to utilize the space, as well. Judson intends to offer additional activities and programs, tapping into her background as a certified fitness trainer and yoga instructor. “There are a lot of people who would benefit from (the space),” said Judson.

The development is in the very preliminary stages, and while Judson is wary of adding a firm timeline to the process, is hoping for success by this summer. For further updates on the initiative or for ways to get involved, visit Haliburton Gymnastics on Facebook. Judson is also seeking active supporters interested in sponsoring this community endeavour, and suggested reaching out to Haliburtongymnastics@gmail.com for more information. “It feels right, doors have opened and I’ve followed them,” said Judson. “It’s time for Haliburton to have this.”