OlderGymnast Laurie Hernandez Goes Pro Ahead of Rio Olympics
Laurie Hernandez has taken herself out of the race for collegiate gymnastics.
The 16-year-old athlete, who is on this year’s Women’s Gymnastics Team for the 2016 Rio Summer Olympics, announced the news on Instagram.
“I am so proud and excited to announce that I’ve turned professional and given up my NCAA eligibility; although I will always be a Florida Gator at heart, I’m looking forward to continuing to represent USA at the highest level of gymnastics for several years to come!” Laurie wrote.
She added, “I really appreciate all the love and support from everyone around me; especially my coach @maggiehaney26 for getting me to this level & helping me achieve these amazing accomplishments!”
“I am excited about what it means to compete at the highest level of this sport and really want to focus on elite gymnastics for the next four years,” Laurie added a USA Gymnastics release. “This was not an easy decision to make, but by making the decision now, it allows me to focus entirely on gymnastics and how I can enjoy this sport that I love.”
Laurie will compete alongside Aly Raisman, Gabby Douglas, Simone Biles and Madison Kocian on the US Team.
