What an amazing day to be an American! Team USA also known as the "Fab 5" got the job done today by out scoring the Russian team by over 5 points. As we all know, this is only the 2nd time in history that the USA has won the team title. It has been 16 years since the gold was first brought home in 1996.
Photo Credit: Getty Images
USA held onto the lead throughout the entire competition, hitting every single routine. Jordyn Wieber, Gabby Douglas, and Mckayla Maroney nailed their amanar vaults at the start of the competition. That put the USA in a comfortable lead after the first rotation. However the highlight was definitely Mckayla sticking her amanar cold with a broke toe. (Kerri Strug anyone?) The height she reaches in the air and her form is by far the best we've ever seen. National team coordinator, Martha Karolyi even told the press "That was the best ever. It definitely deserved a 10 just to make a statement that she is much better than everybody else." Mckayla looked pretty pleased herself as she left the podium. She was brought here for that event only and I'd say she has definitely done her job thus far.
Photo Credit: Getty Images
After failing to advance onto the all around final, Jordyn Wieber fought back and showed the world what a true champ she really is! She competed on vault, bars, and floor, doing some of the best routines we've ever seen her do. Her floor routine scored a 15.000 which would have qualified her in 3rd place for the floor final, which will be her only shot for an individual medal. It was also just released that Jordyn has been dealing with an ankle injury. (You may have noticed it was taped in the competition.) Her coach believes it is a stress fracture and everyone is hoping it won't affect her performance in floor finals. It's unknown how badly this has been effecting Jordyn in training, but this was rumored to be the reason she was pulled from beam in Team Finals. However, I think it's very important to note the support she showed for her teammates throughout the meet, proving that she is indeed a true champ. Most people would hold a grudge, act bitter towards their teammates, and maybe thrown themselves a pitty party. But not Jordyn Wieber. This kid is a fierce competitor, and a role model for everyone. I'd love more than anything to see Jordyn win the floor final (or at least medal) She deserves some individual recognition!
Photo Credit: Getty Images
Photo Credit: Getty Images
Another thing I would like to mention is how well Gabby Douglas performed. Throughout this year she has been a little shaky on beam and floor, but not today! Many people questioned if it was a smart move to put her in the beam lineup instead of Jordyn Wieber. Honestly, that doesn't matter now considering she hit her routine and brought in a big score! If Gabby performs like she did today in the all around final, she will easily outscore the rest of the field. Her all around score today would have placed her 1st in qualification over the Russian favorite Viktoria Komova by 8 tenths.
Photo Credit: Getty Images
Kyla Ross and Aly Raisman also brought in big scores for the USA. Kyla doing bars and beam, Aly doing beam and floor. It was nice seeing Kyla shed a tear after her beam routine and Aly break into tears at the end of her floor routine when she knew they had done it! This team would not be complete without all of these girls. They all contributed huge scores to the team total and worked so well together. I'm absolutely thrilled for them, and I'm hoping that this will give them the confidence they need to go all out with their individual assignments! I see more GREAT things in store for these girls! Well done ladies!
Photo Credit: Getty Images
In other news, the Canadian women made history by placing 5th in the team final. This team has been through a lot. They lost one of their stars Peng Peng Lee just before the games and have dealt with some injuries. To place 5th in the world at the Olympics games is a huge accomplishment for them!
Photo Credit: Getty Images
It was a sad day for the Russians. They fought long and hard to try to catch up to the Americans, but with some wobbles on beam and 2 major mistakes on floor..it just wasn't the Russians day. Although they all seemed very upset with themselves, I applaud them for smiling on the medal stand and happily accepting the silver.
Photo Credit: Getty Images
Today was also a great day to be a gym fan! The "Gymternet" was very much alive during today's competition with fans from all over the world posting their predictions, thoughts, and words of support to all the athletes! Let's keep this GREAT spirit alive because the next best thing to being an Olympian....is being a gym fan!
The rest of the team results can be found below. Congratulations to all the teams who competed today, this will forever remain a day to remember!
USA 183.596
Russia 178. 530
Romania 176. 414
China 174.430
Canada 170.804
Great Britain 170.495
Italy 167.930
Japan 166.646
Photo Credit: Getty Images
Quotes to remember:
"There is no joy on our faces because we are a little tired. We still haven't fully processed it all. First, we cried with pain, then with joy. We knew that we could have been better. Even though we would not have been the first, but we could have competed more confidently. Although overtaking the United States would have probably been impossible. The American women have now proven that they are the best."
- Aliya Mustafina
"We didn't really pay attention to the scores too much. We just knew that we had a really important job to do, just make our routines and do what we'd been practicing. So we went to each event and we were very confident. After floor I think that we were feeling happy that we performed really well."
-Jordyn Wieber
"I would hope that we all would be able to inspire a generation. We all look up to so many other gymnasts, so to be able to inspire little girls would definitely be a dream come true and would mean the world to all of us. It's such an honor to be here. We've all been working so hard and it's still so surreal to be an Olympic champion. Of course there were some sacrifices, but it's all so worth it. And we all love gymnastics so much, so at the time it didn't feel like a sacrifice. So we're just really excited to be here and to have been given this opportunity."
-Aly Raisman
"I feel so blessed to have so many supporters. Thank you to all of my friends and family for helping me pursue my Olympic dream. Thanks to you, this dream has become a reality and it is beyond anything I could have ever hoped for. Competing alongside four amazing gymnasts and helping them reach new heights on the Olympic stage has been such an honor."
With the qualification round done, we now know who will be competing in the team, all around, and event finals. Below is what I'd like to see happen through the rest of these Olympic games.
Photo Credit: USA Gymnastics
Team Finals
After what happened in qualifications, I don't want anything more than to see the USA and Jordyn Wieber dominate. I'm confident that the USA can win this. If they can do exactly what they did in prelims, they'll be un-beatable. I think our advantage really comes on vault. With 3 solid amanars under our belt, all we need to do it hit the other 3 events and we're golden. I'd really like to see Romania take the silver. Their team has improved so much since the retirement of Ana Porgras. They have worked their butts off and I think it's about time for it to pay off! If they can stay calm and do what they've been training, I don't doubt their medal possibilities! For the bronze medal, I honestly don't care if it goes to Russia or China. I love the Chinese, but I just don't know if they have what it takes this time around. The Russians can be VERY good when they're on. But they're known for making uncharacteristic mistakes in competition. The tiny deductions they tend to make could be the difference between a silver and a bronze. But whoever performs better that day shall get the bronze! Best of luck to everyone!
All Around
I never would have imagined talking about an all around final without Jordyn Wieber in it. But at this point, it is what it is. With Aly Raisman and Gabby Douglas representing the USA, I just want them to go out and do the best that they can! I think Gabby has a better shot at winning than Aly does, but she could pull out a podium finish if she hits 100%. Bars is going to be the event that either makes or breaks her. To me, Dougie has the star quality. She has the fire in her eyes, the passion, and an amazing story that we all can't help but love. I wish her the best of luck as she goes for the gold. I'll be rooting for her.
Vault Finals
I think it's quite obvious who the favorite is here. This event is Mckayla Maroney's to lose and I can't wait to watch this all un-fold. As far as silver and bronze goes, I really don't care. But I'd love to see Yamilet Pena land her produnova and win the first ever Olympic medal for the Dominican Republic! That vault has given her so much trouble and I'd LOVE to see her make it when it counts the most. I'd like to see Oksana Chusovitina medal here as well. Again, I don't really care the color, I just want everyone to enjoy the experience and throw the best vaults of their lives!
Photo Credit: Getty Images
Bar Finals
For a long time now, I've always said I wanted Beth Tweddle to win bars in London. It's her best event and when she hits, her routine is phenomenal! How great would it be to see Beth Tweedle FINALLY get her Olympic gold medal in front of a home crowd?! But I think the bar title will be a tough one with so many great bar workers including Gabby Douglas, Viktoria Komova, Alyia Mustafina, and the reigning Olympic champ He Kexin. I would love the podium to be Beth Tweddle, Gabby Douglas, and He Kexin though. This is going to be one heck of a showdown!
Beam Finals
I would like to see Sui Lu take home the gold. I really like her beam work! I think Catalina Ponor deserves another medal, whatever color it may be. Overall I really like all the beam finalists and would be happy with whatever the outcome is. Beam is a tough event and anything can happen due to the pressure. I think it will come down to whoever is best on this particular day (that's kind of been the story at these games!)
Photo Credit: USA Gymnastics
Floor Finals
This is Jordyn Wieber's only final and I really hope she can medal. As much as I'd love to see her win it, I'm not sure how possible that is. Personally, I think Jordyn should add in the double layout she's been training because she has nothing to loose at this point! She might as well give it her all and go all out. I think she would have to have the best routine of her life and maybe have some mess ups from her competitors. But do I think she can make it on the podium? Yes! I think Aly Raisman will be the one to beat, but Sandra Izbasa is the reigning Olympic champ and will be tough to overcome as well. Looking at the field now, I realize how stacked it is with Olympic and world champs!
1. Aly Raisman - 2011 world bronze medalist on floor
2. Sandra Izbasa- 2008 Olympic Champion on floor
3. Vanessa Ferrari- 2006 all around world champion
4. Ksenia Afanasyeva- 2011 world champion on floor
5. Lauren Mitchell- 2010 world champion on floor
6. Jordyn Wieber- 2011 world all around champion
7. Catalina Ponor- 2004 Olympic champion on floor
8. Alyia Mustafina- 2010 world all around champion
I feel like the Olympics never turn out how I want. First Shawn in 2008 and now Jordyn in 2012. But I would still be satisfied if any of the things mentioned above happen. There's a pretty big difference between what we would all LIKE to happen, and what WILL happen. These are just a few of the things we would like to see happen. No hard feelings, and no rude comments because you feel differently. This is all based on opinion.
1. The all around show down!
It's what we've all been waiting for! The battle that will decide the 2012 Olympic all around champion. It's the most anticipated part of the entire women's gymnastics competition and this year the field is stronger than ever! The USA's best bets are Jordyn Wieber who's been a favorite for a long time, along with Gabby Douglas who's proved to be a serious contender going into London. But the battle won't just be between the Americans, they will have some tough foreign competition including the 2010 World champion Aliya Mustafina who's coming back from an knee injury and the 2010 Youth Olympic games champion, Viktoria Komova who is hungry for the gold after placing 2nd to Wieber at last year's world championships. There is also first year senior and Romania's new star Larisa Iordache who has done very well in competition this year. I'm sure we've all been thinking about this day since the beginning of 2009 when the new stars began to emerge. Over the last 4 years we've speculated and debated over who truly is the best...and now it's time to find out. Tune into NBC on August 2nd at 8:00pm ET to watch the competition.
2. Will Yamilet Pena land the produnova?
It's the most difficult vault currently in the code of points (17.0 start value) and she is the only female gymnast competing this vault. In competition, Yamilet has been struggling with this vault and has only landed it once in competition, scoring a 15.700. (Watch it here) So far in London, Pena has not stood up the vault, although her landings have looked better than what we're used to seeing. If Yamilet Pena can pull this vault off, she could medal in the vault finals!
3. Qualifications...it will make you or break you.
Since no medals are given out after the qualification round of competition, many people think this day is no big deal. For some gymnasts, this may be the only day they get to compete and for others it's the day that will make or break their dreams. One slip up, and you could miss qualifying to the all around or event finals. The qualification is actually the most important meet of the games because it's what sets you up for winning more medals throughout! In other words, this meet will determine your fate.
4. History being made!
There are so many possible outcomes for these games and history can be made in so many ways depending on what happens.
If Jordyn Wieber wins the all around she will be the first American gymnast to consecutively win the world championships and go on to win the Olympics. (And only the 2nd person in gymnastics history!)
If Gabby Douglas wins the all around, she will be the first ever African American gymnast to become Olympic champion.
Team USA enters this Olympics with the youngest team they've ever had! Kyla Ross is the youngest at age 15. The oldest is Aly Raisman at age 18.
Germany's Oksana Chusovitina will be competing in her 6th Olympic games, which is the most any gymnast has ever attended.
Lim Heem Wei is the first gymnast from Singapore to qualify to the Olympics.
If Mckayla Maroney wins the vault title (as expected) she will be the first ever American to do so.
5. Team Finals
We're pretty excited for the Team Finals because we know it will be a close battle between the USA, Romania, and Russia. While many people think the title is the USA's to loose, Romania and Russia will be close on their heels. I'm hoping that the USA will come out on top because they came so close in 2008. These girls have what it takes to be a champion and I know they won't go down without a fight! Aside from the All Around, the Team Final will be one of the most intense showdowns of the summer!
What are you most looking forward to in London? Let us know below!
Below are some of the strongest candidates for the title of Olympic champion and the highest all around score they can get. This is based off of the routines they competed in 2012 with the upgrades that we know of. (Assuming they all compete amanars too!)
Jordyn Wieber
(Photo Credit: Getty Images)
All Around Score: 65.300
Gabby Douglas
(Photo Credit: Dilip Vishwanat)
All Around Score: 66.000
Larisa Iordache
(Photo Credit: Thomas Schreyer)
All Around Score: 65.800
Viktoria Komova
(Photo Credit: Thomas Schreyer)
All Around Score: 66.100
Aliya Mustafina
(Photo Credit: Grace Chiu)
All Around Score: 65.500
Yao Jinnan
(Photo Credit: FIG)
All Around Score: 65.000
All Around Standings:
1. Viktoria Komova
2. Gabby Douglas
3. Larisa Iordache
4. Alyia Mustafina
5. Jordyn Wieber
6. Yao Jinnan
As you can see the field is very strong going into London. But if everyone hits, Viktoria Komova has the capability to win it all! Gabby Douglas just 1 tenth behind her. Now of course, anything can happen but this is a good idea of how the podium could turn out if everybody hits their routines! For all of these girls, this will be their first Olympic games and all of them are planning on doing amanars which makes it very close during competition. Let the games begin!
Biggest Accomplishment: 2011 World All Around Champion
Weakness: Bars and beam connections
Where she can contribute: On all 4 events!
Fun Fact: Jordyn went from level 8 to elite in 1 year.
Gabby Douglas
(Photo Credit: CSM/ Landov)
Age: 16
Gym: Chow's Gymnastics
Hometown: Virginia Beach, Virginia
Coaches: Liang Chow and Liwen Zhuang
Years on National Team: 3
Biggest Accomplishment: 1st place at the 2012 Olympic Trials
Weakness: Inconsistent on beam
Where she can contribute: Bars for sure! Possibly on vault and floor.
Fun Fact: Gabby is the first gymnast to compete in a Nastia Liukin Cup and make an Olympic team.
Alexandra Raisman
(Photo Credit: Unknown)
Age: 18
Gym: Brestyans Gymnastics
Hometown: Needham, Massachusetts
Coaches: Mihai and Sylvia Brestyan
Years on National Team: 4
Biggest Accomplishment: Bronze medalist on floor at the 2011 Worlds
Weakness: Bars
Where she can contribute: Mostly on beam and floor
Fun Fact: Aly has a vision board in her room that includes pictures of the Olympic medals and the Magnificent 7 winning the first ever team gold for USA!
Mckayla Maroney
(Photo Credit: Scripps Howard News Service)
Age: 16
Gym: All Olympia Gymnastics
Coaches: Artur Akopyan and Galina Marinova
Years on National Team: 3
Biggest Accomplishment: 2011 Vault World Champion
Weakness: Bars and beam. Sometimes lacks consistency.
Where she can contribute: Vault and possibly floor
Fun Fact: Mckayla wants to be an actor when she's done with gymnastics
Kyla Ross
(Photo Credit: Unknown)
Age: 15
Gym: Gym Max
Coaches: Howie and Jenny Liang
Years on National Team: 4
Biggest Accomplishment: 2 time junior National Champion
Weakness: Floor
Where she can contribute: Bars and beam
Fun Fact: Kyla and her long time friend/teammate Mckayla Maroney went to the 2003 World Championships and knew that someday that both wanted to go the Olympics. That dream has finally come true for both of them!
On August 10, 2003, CNN released a documentary titled "Pursuing the Perfect 10" about the lives of 13 young Parkette's gymnasts. One of these young girls, was 14 year old Kristina Coccia who is better known as "Sharky" in the gymnastics world. Kristina started gymnastics at the age of 3 at a local dance school and switched to Parkettes in 1997 to train with Bill and Donna Strauss. Throughout her career, Kristina battled many injury's, but managed to stay strong and fight through the tough times. Kristina competed as an elite from 2002-2005. In 2006, she dropped back down to level 10 due to another injury and decided to focus on college gymnastics. In 2008, Kristina began competing for the University of Denver. We caught up with Kristina to talk about training at Parkettes, the documentary, and what she's up to now!
(Photo Credit: Michelle Banom)
Throughout your gymnastics career you were given the nickname "Sharky." Who gave you that name and why?
I was given the name Sharky when I was only 6 years old. My first coach at Parkettes, Michelle Williams, was working with me on vault; and I was a terrible vaulter! I couldn't even get over the horse. She said I finally landed a front-handspring with spot and could not stop smiling. My smile apparently reminded her of a baby shark from a cartoon and "Sharky" just popped out of her mouth. From then I was no longer Kristina in the gymnastics world: I was Sharky. I am now 23 years old and my friends, teammates, family and coaches still call me Sharky. I absolutely LOVE my nickname and it is a huge part of my identity.
You were one of the gymnasts featured in the Parkettes documentary "Pursuing the Perfect 10." Do you think the documentary showed what you really went through or was it made more dramatic for the viewers?
Yes, I was one of the gymnasts featured in "Pursuing the Perfect 10". What most people do not know is that they filmed us for almost 2 - 2.5 years, so they had a lot of film to use. The original story was supposed to feature a few of us and describe the different lifestyles we all live. For example, at the time we started filming, I was going to be featured as the elite gymnast who still lived a fairly "normal" life: I went to a public school and did not have to move away from my family and friends in order to achieve my dreams. I was the hometown girl: born and raised in the Lehigh Valley. But once filming started, things changed. CNN followed us around for months and months; went to our homes, practices, and competitions. At the time, I was so young, I honestly did not realize how much this documentary could have hurt my coaches, teammates and family. Luckily, those of us at Parkettes who were featured stuck together and got through an extremely hard time together. I do not regret the documentary one bit; however, I wish the rest of the gymnastics community could see the thousands and thousands of hours of film they do have on us. The positive, funny, and rewarding side of Parkettes. Instead everyone saw the negative; and unfortunately, the gymnastics community believes what they saw on the documentary. I absolutely believe that is was made more dramatic for viewers. Isn't all reality television and documentaries that way? CNN got the gymnastics population talking and Parkettes was looked at as the worst gym to send your son or daughter. When in reality, it is the best place. I don't regret the documentary one bit. Was it easy? Absolutely not. But no elite level sport is.
Why did you retire from elite gymnastics? I had my fair share of injuries; broken bones, surgeries, etc. My goal when I was little was to get a college scholarship and to make the national team. The Olympics and World Championships are obviously on almost every gymnasts mind, but I knew college was my main goal. After 5 years of elite gymnastics (1 at the National Elite level and 4 at International Elite) I was not enjoying gymnastics as much as I wanted to. I wanted to go back to school and make sure I was getting a good high school education to prepare myself for the SAT's and college. It was not an easy decision but my coaches supported me 100% in my decision because they wanted me to be happy and healthy. Education has always been extremely important to me, and I knew staying home schooled throughout high school was probably not the smartest decision I could have made. So I finished my elite career with no regrets. I battled back from injuries year after year, proved numerous people wrong who said "I couldn't become an elite or come back from yet another injury". Everyone has their time when you need to retire from high level competition no matter what the sport; mine came earlier than I would have liked, but I was happy going back to level 10 and enjoyed working with the best group of level 10's in the country.
Why did you decided on the University of Denver?
What most people won't believe is that the University of Denver (DU) was my last choice. I am a HUGE sports fan and wanted to go to a big time university with college football. I kept thinking to myself, "Why would I go to DU? They don't even have football!" But I went on unofficial visits to Arizona State and Stanford, and had official visits lined up to Louisiana State University, DU and Michigan State. I went to LSU and realized I didn't enjoy a big university and turned down a scholarship. I went to DU the following weekend and fell in love with the city of Denver, the coaches and team. The coaches were so real and honest, the girls were so down to earth and the academics at DU are phenomenal. Throughout the recruiting process I always heard, "when you step on the campus, you'll know it's the place for you". That's exactly how I felt when I was at DU. Melissa Kutcher-Reinhart (head coach at DU) offered me a scholarship that weekend and I committed! I couldn't imagine spending my college career anywhere else. The coaches, team and administration truly care about one another and the amount of support our athletic department gives our gymnastics program is amazing. We are the top female sport at DU and are not overpowered by football at our university. We are one family at the University of Denver and I could not have been happier with my decision!
Talk about which experience you enjoyed more, elite or college?
I enjoyed each phase of my career for different reasons. Elite gymnastics was tough, challenging, demanding and exhausting. Taking that step into elite gymnastics is scary; I missed 3 years of school but traveled to places that some people may never get too. I learned so much about myself throughout those elite years and persevered through a lot. My experience as an elite was always rewarding, whether it was the life long friends I made, the traveling or the thrill of hitting a routine or new skill in front of the national staff at the ranch. I loved everything about my elite experience. What I do realize is that at Parkettes, we were extremely lucky to have 6 to 8 elites throughout my career, so this amazing experience was spent with so many great girls, whereas some gyms may only have 1 or 2 elites. Having such supporting teammates made my elite experience that much better. College gymnastics was SO different for me. It wasn't the team aspect that shocked me, because I've always worked with a large group of girls whether it was elite or level 10; but I couldn't believe I only was going to work out 20 hours a week! I was used to 35-40 hours of training. I had no idea how I was supposed to get all my work done in just 20 hours. But I quickly caught on. College gymnastics is the most exciting time of my gymnastics career. Waking up on Saturday mornings knowing we had a competition that night or preparing for road trips was the best part of it all. Competing for the University of Denver was something I will never forget. Wearing crimson and gold on the competition floor created such a sense of pride in my gymnastics. I was no longer doing gymnastics for myself, but for my team and university. I realized that maybe if I would have taken less pressure off myself as an elite and used this sense of pride when I was younger, I may have been more successful as an elite. Who knows! But I loved each experience for something different. Both were more rewarding than I could have ever imagined."
Do you still keep in contact with your former coaches and teammates? If so, do you think your relationship is better now than it was then?
Oh my gosh, I talk to my former coaches probably once a week! Mr. and Mrs. Strauss are like my second family; I spent every day with them for 16 years. They mean more to me than people will ever know. My teammates are my best friends, we are constantly in contact and updating each other on our lives. Every chance we get, we have reunions. Those girls I trained with are the only people who truly know the ups and the downs of my gymnastics career, but also how I became the person I am today. I had the best coaches and teammates in the world; my relationship with my coaches was never negative, ever. I always had such respect and love for each and every one of my coaches throughout my career. I don't know if I can say my relationship is better than it was when I was a gymnast, but it is very different. It's not all about gymnastics anymore. We talk about our families, jobs, education, etc. We are apart of each others families for life and I cannot thank them enough for everything they have done for myself and my family.
What kept you going when things got tough in the gym?
I found out over the years that I really like proving people wrong, haha. The negativity people threw at me kept me going; those who said "I can't" was turned into a positive. But more importantly, my pure love for gymnastics. I absolutely love gymnastics and cannot imagine my life without it. I truly believe that if you love what you do, there is no better feeling. I also had a great support system in my family and friends. My parents and brother supported me throughout injuries, mental blocks and times when I honestly didn't want to walk into the gym. Their constant support was there to remind me how much I loved gymnastics and I left the sport with no regrets whatsoever. My passion and determination drove me throughout my career and there is no way without those two qualities would I have made it until the end.
You seem to really support current Parkette gymnast Elizabeth Price. What do you enjoy about her gymnastics and would you like to see her continue on to 2016?
Yes, Elizabeth Price (Ebee) has my full support. I've had the pleasure of knowing Ebee since she walked through the doors of Parkettes. I've watched her grow into a wonderful gymnast, but also an extremely intelligent young woman. We've always had a great relationship in the gym, whether I was coaching her in the summers or sharing funny gymnastics stories during holiday visits. Ebee has such a great personality and it shows in her gymnastics. She is so strong mentally and physically, it's impossible not to love her gymnastics! Not only is she extremely talented, but she is a hard worker. Her attitude is always positive and seeing her compete always puts a smile on my face. I would love to see Ebee to continue Elite as long as she wants too. The best part about Ebee is that she loves what she does. I know she wants to do college gymnastics and I cannot wait to watch her dominate the college scene. Whatever decision she makes about 2016 is completely up to her. Everyone was so surprised by how well she did at VISA's and Trials, but we were not. She's always had the talent, heart and drive to be the best. Whatever Ebee decides, I will support her 100%.
What is your favorite gymnastics memory?
Oh boy- I have a lot! I honestly can't think of just one for my club career at Parkettes. There were so many wonderful gymnastics memories there, it would be hard to just choose one. So I'll choose one competition that happened every year- the Parkette Invitational (PKI). It was the most stressful week of training, ever. I still can't find a week of training that was more stressful than the week leading up to the PKI every year, but the competition was so much fun. Family, friends, and every gymnast at Parkettes came to watch the night session of open optional, and the energy every year in the gym was amazing. It was a competition we always looked forward too, no matter what level you were competing. We loved decorating the locker room and filling the gym with a ton of energy. I still remember those meets like it was yesterday! From my college career, there are two. The first memory happened my freshman year (2008) at NCAA Regionals at Penn State University where we qualified as a team to NCAA Championships. We ended on floor and needed to hit 5 nearly perfect routines in order to qualify. I just remember finishing my floor routine with the best feeling in the entire world; we were going to NCAA's. The last 2 girls in the lineup secured our NCAA berth, but there was nothing like that feeling of accomplishing a goal with your team. We placed second ahead of Penn State by .075 to qualify as a team; I still get chills when I think about it! The second memory I have is my entire senior year at DU. The entire season was just one to remember. My body was shutting down and I knew it was the end of my career, but I had the best senior class and the most amazing group of young ladies on the team that year. I have a memory from every meet that year and I could not have imagined ending my career in a better way. We hosted NCAA Regionals that year and it ended up being the last competition of my career. Alumni, family and friends packed the arena to cheer us on and I am still so grateful to end my career like that. It might have been the most gratifying year of my entire gymnastics career.
Finally, what have you been up to today?
I graduated from DU in 2011 with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology. Currently, I am still living in Denver and going to graduate school at DU. I have one more year left and I will have my Masters of Arts in Higher Education: College Student Development. I intern in Student-Athlete Support Services throughout the academic year and work part-time at our business school as a Project Coordinator in Admissions. And of course I am still involved with gymnastics! Last year I was our Meet Director for all of our home meets; it was a great way to stay involved and see the "other" side of college gymnastics! I travel back east quite a bit to see my family. My brother is the starting center for the University of New Hampshire football team, so he now has my full attention after all those years he supported me in gymnastics! So that takes up a bit of my time with all of the traveling. Well see where I end up in a year or so once I finish school! Wherever I go, gymnastics will always be apart of my life!
It can be anything from a pair of grips, a change of clothes, or an afternoon snack. We asked some current and former elite gymnast's to tell us what's in their gym bags!
Abby Millet
(4 time national qualifier, 11th all around at the 2012 Visa Championships)
(Photo Credit: The Millet family)
"I bring my ipad, phone, gum, sunglasses, keys, makeup, and sometimes a little candy! And of course I bring my grips and wrist guards!"
Stefani Catour
(2010 National Qualifier, Scholarship to the University of Oklahoma)
(Photo Credit: Brian Jones)
"I usually just have like my grips with tape and pre wrap, water, and a granola bar!"
Asi Peko
(4th all around at the 2008 Visa Championships, Scholarship to UCLA)
(Photo Credit: USA Gymnastics)
"I bring my water, leo, change of clothes, sandals, and my car keys!"
Samantha Shapiro
(2nd all around at the 2008 Pacific Rim, Scholarship to Stanford)
(Photo Credit: USA Gymnastics)
"A few things I put in my gym bag are extra tape and hairbands. Of course my grips, extra socks, water, and some power bars. I don't have anything unusually interesting!"
On July 10th, 2012 a fundraiser/party was held for Jordyn Wieber and her coaches John and Kathryn Geddert as they head off for the London Olympics on July 12th. Nearly 300 people including family, friends, and fans filled the Lexington Lansing Hotel in support of the Michigan Olympic hopeful!
Fans who bought VIP tickets got to meet Jordyn before the party started. They also got a huge autograph poster and an autographed Wieber Fever t-shirt.
Everyone snacked on sub sandwhichs and hard boiled eggs while watching video montages of Jordyn play on the big screen and listening to guest speakers throughout the night! Montages included Ashleyakaflipper, Ilitter, and Gymnasticsfan14. (Yes, that's me!) It was awesome to see her smiling while watching my video!
Several news cameras were there as well. Doing interviews with John, Rita Wieber, and the ever so popular Ryan Wieber.
A big green screen was out in the lobby and everyone got the chance to wish Jordyn and her coaches good luck on video. Even Kevin Costner was there!
Overall, the night was a success and it will remain a night we will never forget!
Check out some of our pictures and videos from the night!
She was the star of the 1972 summer Olympic games in Munich and will be forever known as the mother of gymnastics. Olga Korbut, was just 17 years old and a mere 86 pounds when she dominated the 1972 Olympics winning 3 gold medals and a silver. Olga's performances would forever change the sport of gymnastics, at the time...the moves she did had never been done before! Flipping off the beam or bars with no hands was unheard of! Little girls all around the world wanted to be the next Olga Korbut and enrolled in gymnastics classes. At the 1976 Olympics, she won a silver medal on the balance beam and retired a year later. We caught up with Olga to find out what she's been up to and how she feels about gymnastics today!
(Photo Credit: Unknown)
Growing up, who were your idols? How does it feel to have young girls looking up to you?
"I didn't have an idol, but my first coach was an inspiration! I've always loved my fans. They have been with me for 40 years now. I love to see the gymnastics desire in their eyes!"
Where do you keep all your Olympic medals?
"I keep my medals at home, but I take them with me to all of my appearances."
You were the first gymnast to compete a back flip on the beam, what made you decide to do a skill that was considered so daring at the time?
"Yes, I was the first to do a back flip on the beam! It took 10 years to develop and was designed to change gymnastics forever!"
How did you feel when the back flip was banned from competition for being to risky?
"Seriously, I didn't care if they tried to ban my elements. I told them "If you do, I will quit" and they let me perform until 1976 because gymnastics needed me."
When you were competing, what were your main goals? Obviously the Olympics weren't as big back in the 70's.
"My goals when I realized I had a future in gymnastic, was to just make the team. That meant I became a Corporal in the Russian army and I could support my family. We were poor. Some nights we didn't have anything to eat. When I was 17, I made more money then my mom and dad together and I gave it all to my family so we could have a better life. We weren't rich, but we could eat everyday and wear clean clothes. Life got better, but there was so much pressure to travel the world and do exhibitions. I didn't have time to practice for the 1976 games. That's my life and I hope my fans understand and accept my efforts. Athletes today don't have to go through what I went through. I had to prepare and practice for 10 hours a day for 10 years! I made money one penny at a time. Gymnastics is the best and hardest sport in the world and my fans have told me that for the last 40 years! Gymnastics has been the most watched sport on TV sine 1972 because millions of people watched, I am honored. I passed the torch to Nadia in 1976, but now it's time for a new Olga to come alive in 2012!
Are you still involved with the sport of gymnastics?
"Yes I am still involved, but I only coach young gymnasts in private lessons right now. There are so many interviews and appearances for my 40th anniversary!"
Can you still do any of your old skills? Have you tried?
"I walk over 5 miles each day and spend one hour in the gym. I do the splits, handstands, and dance! I'm 57 years old and the ladies in the gym can't believe it. I'm just 5 pounds heavier then I was in 1972!"
Gymnastics has changed a lot since the 70's! What amazes you the most about gymnastics today?
"Gymnastics is like any other sport. The equipment has changed and the athletes are stronger. Many gymnasts are doing great things, but I would like to see more grace in their performances."
With the 2012 Olympics right around the corner, who are you most excited to watch?
"There are several gymnasts that excite me. But I feel someone who is unknown, will perform and become the new Olga! I don't know who, but I can't wait to watch!"
What have you been up to lately?
"I just completed Dancing On Ice in London. It's like Dancing with the Stars in the USA, but it's skating. I never skated in my life, but it was a wonderful opportunity and I would do it again. Other than that, I'm just preparing for the Olympics. I will be one of the 16 Olympic athletes in history to be featured at the Olympic Museum at the Royal Opera House in London, and I will also work with BBC during the gymnastics competition. I will also get married this year and I'm just enjoying life. After the Olympics and the media rush is over, my fiancee and I would like to buy a house so I can have a garden."
So many people were devastated when the Romanian star Ana Porgras retired earlier this year. The only thing fan's could hope for was that she'd regret retiring and maybe comeback. Unfortunately, Ana has retired for good and is happy with her new life outside of the gym.
(Photo belongs to Ana)
Ana's fans have been a little harsh towards her online since her retirement.
Here's a rough translation of what she had to say a few weeks ago:
"Do you think you've made a big enough impact on me to come back to gymnastics? Well you are wrong. Many people have tried to do it and failed."
She also said this about her retirement back in March:
"The world talks. Nobody know's what's out there. I wish people would keep their opinions to themselves. In this country you are business. Then you are forgotten all over the world. But this is Romania."
All I can say is, I hope Ana is happy! Her gymnastics will always be remembered and of course greatly missed!
This photo was taken in May, nice to see she's still at it!
(Photo belongs to Ana)
Click here to read an interview with Ana, after her retirement.
On Sunday July 1st, 2012 the US women's Olympic team was announced. For 5 young women, this will forever remain one of the greatest days of their lives, the day their dreams came true.... the day they became Olympians. 10 others had their dreams shattered; left behind to watch from their television's as their friends and training partners take to the biggest stage in gymnastics. After a lifetime of training, these young women have finally reached the end of the road. For some it may be bitter sweet, others are left wanting more. Although this is the end of yet another Olympic cycle, this is not the end of the journey that each of these young women will take. Many of them will move on from the world of elite gymnastics; go on to college, live the life of a normal teenager. Few more will continue training in hopes of realizing their dreams in 2016. It's been a long road; a lifetime of training day in and day out in the gym, missing high school dances, and hanging out with friends; but its a road that will lead them on to greater things. Gymnastics has given them drive, discipline, and maturity beyond their years. Not to mention it has taken them to places most kids can only dream about. I hope these kids will be able to look back at the years they spent as an elite gymnast and feel proud. As they reach for greater heights and overcome many obstacles with whatever may come, they'll realize that at the end of every rainbow, there is a pot of gold.
Alicia Sacramone (Brestyans Gymnastics)
(Photo Credit: NBC and USA Gymnastics)
What a career Alicia has had! In the last 10 years, we've been so privileged to watch her progress and perform like the true team captian she is. Back in 2004, a young Sacramone didn't even qualify to the Olympic Trials. But she wasn't ready to give up on her dreams just yet. She bounced back in 2005-2007, winning numerous world and national titles. Then came 2008. Now, if you've watched any gymnastics meet covered by NBC in the last 4 years, you probably know what happened in Bejing. It really wasn't the Olympic experience that Alicia had hoped for and her post games retirment came as no suprise. But shortly after, Alicia announced that she would like to give her elite days one final run. She didn't want to finish her career on a bad note, and I think that ended up being one of the greatest choices she's ever made. In 2010. we saw a new Alicia Sacramone. She looked happy, and everything she did was simply for the joy of doing gymnastics. She went on to become a vault World Champion and the most decerated U.S. gymnast in World Championships history. I'm glad that Alicia was able to finish her career off with a bang, and I know that she has inspired so many young athletes out there to never give up. Alicia Sacramone is a true champion.
Final Words: "Thanks to ALL of my supporters! You have been truly amazing! I leave this sport with no regrets and a kick ass comeback to my name!"
Kennedy Baker (Texas Dreams)
(Photo Credit: Kennedy Baker and USA Gymnastics)
Kennedy Baker has always been the underdog. But the worst thing one can do is assume that "underdog" is the equivalent to "not talented." I really hope that Kennedy dominates the NCAA scene (Florida Gator) because this powerful tumbler deserves her chance to shine. She has improved so much since the days of 2009 (when she wasn't even on the National Team.) Kennedy should be so proud to have made it this far!
Final Words: "I am so blessed to be a part of this whole experience! Thank you everyone for your support! I had so much fun! And congrats to everyone who made the team!"
Sabrina Vega (Dynamic)
(Photo Credit: Sabrina's Official Website and USA Gymnastics)
Sabrina Vega. From World Champion to not even an alternate on the Olympic Team. It amazes me how something like that can happen. But I think one of the biggest lessons this Olympic cycle has taught me, is that no medal can ever guarantee your fate. You have to keep working hard, and not just assume that your previous medals/experience will be enough to pull you through. I wish Sabrina had not given up her NCAA elgiblity because she would have lit up the stage at UCLA (in my personal opinion!) Now all we can do is hope that she will stick around for 2016 because I still think she has something special left in her. Regardless of what she decides to do, Sabrina will forever remain one of the most beautiful gymnasts in U.S history.
Final Words: "It's been a really exciting journey, and I've had the chance to represent the USA in alot of different countries and even at the World Championships. I have alot of accomplishments to be proud of and I gave it my all, I had alot of fun."
Nastia Liukin (WOGA)
(Photo Credit: NBC and USA Gymnastics)
Nastia Liukin is an inspiration to so many people around the world. I love the perseverance and courage that she showed, even when the world was doubting her. At first, I was heartbroken for Nastia. But then I saw the way she got back up (like she's had to do several times in the past weeks!) and perform like the true champion she is. She showed such class in every interview and performance she did and I was glad to see her say farwell to the sport thats been her life for the past 22 years, in such a beautiful and emotional way. Nastia will be going on the 2012 Tour of Olympic Superstars, before heading off to NYU in January to study sports management. Thank you Nastia, for everything you have done for this sport. We wish you all the best.
Final Words: "Thank you to the 18,000 people that gave me a standing ovation tonight. I will remember this moment for the rest of my life. Most importantly...Thank you to my parents & special people in my life that always kept me calm, believed in me & shown their love & support. I'm overwhelmed by the love and support. I would have never imagined anything like this... Thank you, from the bottom of my heart."
Brenna Dowell (GAGE)
(Photo Credit: USA Gymnastics)
Brenna has been such a plessure to watch these past few years. She is a beautiful gymnast/person and I know she will do great at the University of Oklahoma! I think making it this far, is something Brenna should be VERY proud of. Good Luck Brenna, we will miss you!
Final Words: "I have had an amazing week! Thanks everyone for all your support! I am blessed to have this awesome opportunity. I could not have done it without you! I love you all!"
Bridget Sloan (Sharps)
(Photo Credit: Sharps Gymnastics and Heather Maynez)
It's so unfortunate that Bridget had to finish her elite career off like this. But looking back, she has so much to be proud off. Not many athletes can say they're an Olympic silver medalist, National Champion, and World Champion. Seeing how positive Bridget was in her interviews was really inspiring and I love how confident she feels going into her season as a Florida Gator. I really hope that Bridget can stay injury free and enjoy her time in college, because she deserves every moment of it! Thanks for being such a positive role model to thousands of people Bridget! We wish you all the best in college!
Final Words: "Well, not my ideal way of ending my elite career but I am so blessed and so grateful I was able to make it so far!"
Rebecca Bross (WOGA)
(Photo Credit: NBC and USA Gymnastics)
I still feel so badly for Rebecca because I know she didn't want to go out like this. Never in a million years, did I think that Becca would not be one of the athletes representing the USA in London. She was right on track, winning national titles and proving that she can be one of the top gymnasts in the world. And then, diaster strikes. Just like that, a dream falls apart. I can't help but think...what if? What if she never would have done that vault, last August at Nationals. Would she be going to London? We will never know. All we can do, is look back on all the wonderful things Becca has accomplished and hope that she finds happiness in whatever comes next for her! Best of luck Rebecca! You will certaintly be missed!
Final Words: "Thank you everyone for you support! And I want to say congrats to everyone who made the team, you guys will do awesome."
We would like to congratulate each and everyone of these athletes on making it this far and for always insipring us to try our very hardest. We hope you find happiness in your future endeavors!
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