Once a Gymnast, Always a Gymnast The 2008 USA Gymnastics Olympic Trials instilled in me a patriotic vision. I was in my second year of competitive gymnastics and dreamed of qualifying for the 2016 national team. Bela and Marta Karolyi chose Nastia Liukin, Shawn Johnson, Alicia Sacramone and three others to represent the United States in the Beijing Olympics. The spectacular fireworks, lanterns and dancers in the opening ceremonies truly caught my attention. I whispered, “I will be there someday.” Olympians master ten skill levels which take many years to complete. At the age of six, the Sunburst Gymnastics Center invited me to join their level four competitive team. My first year, Coach Denise quickly advanced me through levels four and five. Each level involves learning new intricate skills with practice five times a week. She said, “Catherine, you are a fearless bundle of energy.” …show more content…
The 2009 Oregon state championship in front of a packed arena was a day I will never forget. Holding ornate posters, all the teams marched in and were introduced. Gazing at the Stars and Stripes while hearing the powerful voice of Whitney Houston sing our national anthem truly inspired me with a sense of national pride. I was thankful for all who made it possible for me to live in such a wonderful country and participate in the sport I love so much. This day was my American Dream. Vault, uneven bars, balance beam, and the floor exercise were all my personal bests. It was a clean sweep with four gold medals and a fifth for the all-around. Climbing to the top of the podium five times was my Olympic moment which I will always