… Fans have to remember that the Classic is usually the first major competitive elite experience in months – or in some cases, a year or more – for these athletes. Most are trying out new skills while others are debuting brand new routines. …
Despite the spills, bumps, and bruises along the way, we did see lots of promise from both junior and senior athletes at the Classic, athletes who will now spend the next few weeks polishing and fine-tuning in order to make their case for inclusion on the U.S. National Team at the P&G Championships in a couple of weeks. I loved the immense difficulty attempted by these athletes, even if the results were a bit messy …
Our first order of business is definitely the competitive return of Maroney …
Maroney also competed on floor, where she went for a big double layout (a little too big, as it landed out of bounds), a 2.5 to punch front, a gorgeous stuck double arabian, and a double pike.
It was a great, sassy routine where she truly made the statement that she’s back and here to stay. I talked to her for a bit about her goals and whether 2016 was on her mind or, like every other stock gymnast answer, if she was “taking it one day at a time.” Maroney’s no “stock answer” gal, though, and answered,
“Not only is Rio on my mind, it’s the only thing on my mind. It’s the password on my phone.” …
Couch Gymnast – 2013 Secret U.S. Classic: The Seniors
Click PLAY or watch it on YouTube.
Lauren is on GymCastic this week. Episode 42: The 2013 Secret US Classic from Chicago

