Thoughts from the 2013 World Championships (WAG)

It's been an exciting week in Antwerp with lots of great gymnastics on display and even more great memories. I'm so proud of all the athletes who competed and represented their nations with class and dignity! The year following an Olympic games is typically a rough one for most gymnasts, but this year, us fans we not disappointed! Here are some of my favorite moments from these championships.

 The Domination of Team USA

Photo Credit: USA Gymnastics

Let's face it, Team USA was on fire here in Antwerp. They truly were the most prepared team and I'm ecstatic that all their hard work paid off. With only three girls representing, we managed to bring home eight medals (three gold, four silver, and one bronze) which is more than any other nation. Mckayla Maroney was the only athlete to suffer a fall during the entire week of competition. That goes to show how physically and mentally  prepared our athletes were. I can't wait to see how much Team USA improves in the future. Huge congratulations goes out to the athletes and their coaches; you made us all so proud! 

Simone Biles's World Debut 

Photo Credit: USA Gymnastics/Edit by Triple Twist

Simone Biles- the adorable little firecracker who stole my heart in Belgium! I've been a fan of Simone since her junior days and I am thrilled with her success at these championships. I read a lot of things leading up to Worlds that questioned if Simone would have what it takes to become the next world champion...and I didn't believe it for a minute. She's worked her butt off and it shows. Not many sixteen year olds can say they became a two time world champion, got a skill named after them, made all 4 event finals, and became the most decorated female athlete from these championships all in their first year as a senior. It truly is remarkable. Simone reminds me SO much of Shawn Johnson. They both have that infectious smile and some incredible gymnastics to back it up! Huge congratulations to Simone for staying focused and confident during the course of the past week. You pulled through! 

The Return of Veterans

It was great to see so many returning athletes from the Olympic Games last year! Kyla Ross, Mckayla Maroney, Aliya Mustafina and so many more competed like veterans and I'm so happy for all of them! It's amazing how much more mature these girls are. When things don't work out, they smile and keep going. Kyla Ross accepted three silver medals and looked proud of every single one. Sandra Izbasa lost her only chance at a medal in the floor final when she fell on her last pass, but she was all smiles after she saluted! She even let out a little giggle. It's refreshing to see! I'm proud of all these girls for getting back in the gym right after the Olympic year and getting back into competitive shape. 

 The "Moors" is official! 

Hallelujah! It's about time. Victoria Moors finally got the layed out double double named after her during Friday's all around competition. She fell on it in qualifications, so the all around competition was Victoria's last chance to successfully complete it.  Thankfully she did- and us Victoria fans could not be happier! Congrats Victoria! 

Again, a huge congratulations goes out to ALL the athletes who competed this week. Everyone worked hard and I really believe that every medal was deserved. I don't have any complaints about how things turned out. Everyone has something to take away from these World Championships, whether that be a medal, more experience, or the pride of representing your country in one of the most prestigious meets ever! Here's to Nanning 2014!