Young gymnasts get to compete with the all-time greats
With an eye to the future, the younger gymnasts got an up-close chance to see what it takes to be an Olympian.
HARTFORD, Conn. (WSMV) – Mid-May at the XL Center in Downtown Hartford, 50 of the best women’s gymnasts in the country gathered for the Core Hydration Classic. It’s one of a handful of competitions of the Olympic selection committee uses to determine the U.S. Olympic team.
The event features Olympic gold medalists and world champions, competing for a spot on this year’s team.
But there’s also a chance for younger girls to make an impression. The gymnasts compete all year at local events and different competitions, but this competition is big time. They compete with the best of the best.
“I really want to come back for 2025 in the (World Championship), and the 26 Worlds, and you know, see where it takes me, and then you know, try to make the 2028 Olympics as well,” one young gymnast said.
“This year, I know there are a lot more experienced, better athletes than me,” said another. “So, I think I’m just more of an underdog and going for the experience of the Worlds, not making the 2024 Olympic team.”
With an eye to the future, the younger gymnasts got an up-close chance to see what it takes to be an Olympian. For the first time ever, three all-around gold medalists, Simon Biles, Gabby Douglas and Suni Lee, competed in the same event.
The U.S. Championships are just two weeks away – one last chance to make a case for an invite to the Olympic trials.
Copyright 2024 WSMV. All rights reserved.
