The Complete Guide to the U.S. Olympic Team Trials for Gymnastics
The U.S. Olympic Team Trials offer an exciting look at top gymnasts competing to participate in the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games. While the COVID-19 pandemic has postponed the original 2020 events, teams from each participating nation are gearing up for the rescheduled trials. Here’s what you need to know about the upcoming trials for gymnastics.
What Are the Date & Location Changes?
Originally, the U.S. Olympic Team Trials for gymnastics were set to be held at the Enterprise Center in St. Louis, MO. However, due to COVID-19, the event will now occur in the Dome at America’s Center. The 2020 dates have been rescheduled to June 24 - 27, 2021. Those who purchased tickets before the move will not be able to use their 2020 tickets for the new dates, but they will be eligible for a refund and have priority access to the exclusive presale.
What Are the Qualification Standards?
Qualification for the gymnastics portion of the Olympics is set by the International Gymnastics Federation. Based on the trials, the women will have a team consisting of four gymnasts and an additional two athletes per National Olympic Committee (NOC) who will compete in individual events. The top two women in the all-around competition automatically make the team. Currently, Jade Carey qualifies for one of the two spots in the individual events, but she must compete in the trials for a spot on the team.
A team of four gymnasts and two individual athletes per NOC will qualify in the men’s gymnastic events. The top man in the all-around competition will automatically be chosen for the team.
Who Are the Popular Gymnasts?
As you watch the Olympic Team Trials, you'll notice the following standout athletes:
- Simone Biles: Often considered one of the world’s greatest athletes, Biles became the first U.S. female gymnast to win four medals in a single Olympic Games in Rio in 2016. She is currently the most decorated American gymnast with 30 medals, five from the Olympics and 25 from the World Championships.
- Sam Mikulak: Mikulak is returning for his third Olympic Games as a six-time U.S. national all-around champion. He has not yet secured an Olympic medal but has hopes for the next Games.
Other gymnastics athletes include Jade Carey, Morgan Hurd, Jordan Chiles, Sunisa Lee, Skye Blakely, and Konnor McClain.
After the Summer competition, join GTC of Rochester in Newark, NJ at the Prudential Center on Saturday, October 30th to celebrate with The GOLD OVER AMERICA TOUR starring SIMONE BILES. According to the tour, it is "a celebration of powerful female athletes who, together, are a united force proudly representing the sport of women’s gymnastics and inspiring the next generation of female athletes."
"Biles and an all-star team of gymnasts featuring Laurie Hernandez, Katelyn Ohashi, Peng Peng Lee, Danusia Francis, and Morgan Hurd among others celebrate world-class gymnastics in the afterglow of the world’s preeminent international competition. The tour will feature some of the most exciting female athletes in the world in a way you’ve never seen before… their way!"
“I love the sport of gymnastics and want to help create a show that celebrates the pure joy of performing,” said Simone Biles. “I believe there is GOLD inside of us all and it’s time to let that GOLD shine.”
"The GOLD OVER AMERICA TOUR will be a high-octane, fun-filled experience that will not only showcase athletic brilliance but also showcase each athlete's own inspiring championship journeys and bring the audience closer to the action than ever before." Contact GTC of Rochester for Early Bird tickets and pricing before July 15th.
If your child has taken an interest in gymnastics, sign them up at The Gymnastics Training Center of Rochester Inc. Based in Rochester, NY, these knowledgeable coaches offer safe learning for children of all ages and skill levels throughout Monroe and Wayne counties. Their ultimate goal is to teach the importance of exercise, health, and safety as your child develops as a gymnast. Visit their website to learn more about their classes, or call (585) 388-8686 to sign up your child.