Gymnasts gather at Mall of America ahead of 2024 U.S. Olympic team trials in Minneapolis
BLOOMINGTON, Minn. — In just over six short months, the best of the best will be in Minnesota competing for the chance at gold.
Minneapolis will host the U.S. Olympic Team trials in June.
"I don't have words, it's going to be amazing," said Minnesota gymnast Mia Garding. "I can't wait."
To kick off the sport's season, and amp up the build toward trials, five local teams showcased their skills at Mall of America Wednesday.
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"The state of Minnesota is just so incredible for the sport of gymnastics," said Jenny Hanson, head coach of the University of Minnesota women's gymnastics team.
Wednesday's event was all about celebrating and amping up the anticipation for next summer's Olympic trials, and the excitement is palpable.
"We've really become a hotbed for gymnastics, so it seems like the right year for us to be hosting it and we are so excited," said Wendy Blackshaw, CEO of Minnesota Sports and Events. "People in the know in gymnastics have said that the trials could be more competitive than even in someways the Olympics."
Gymnasts and fans were also treated to a surprise appearance by hometown hero and decorated Olympian Suni Lee.
"She is so humble and so gracious and so easygoing when people ask for pictures, and she is so impressive," Blackshaw said.
Her presence added to the already-bubbling anticipation.
"The city's going to feel it, the state's going to feel it," said Jess Graba, owner of Midwest Gymnastics.
And it will maybe even inspire some future Olympians.
"There is a reason gymnastics is the most-watched sport in the Olympics," Hanson said.
Minnesota Sports and Events tells WCCO tickets for the trials in June are already 85% sold out. If you hope to watch in person, you better grab those tickets soon.