Simone Biles stole the show at the USA Gymnastics Core Hydration Classic, claiming her second consecutive all-around title with a score of 59.50. The competition served as the final qualifying event for the 2024 Xfinity U.S. Gymnastics Championship, with Biles looking to secure a spot on the women’s Olympic team for the Paris Games. Despite the hype surrounding the first match-up between the last three Olympic all-around champions – Biles, Sunisa Lee, and Gabby Douglas – it was Biles and Shilese Jones who dominated the competition.
Gabby Douglas, recently back on the elite gymnastics scene, pulled out of the meet after a disappointing start on bars. Sunisa Lee, who is in remission from kidney disease, is slowly returning to elite competition and earned the beam title at the Core Classic. Biles showcased her skills on beam, floor, vault, and uneven bars, securing the all-around win in her first elite meet of the year. With the Olympic Women’s Team selection approaching in June, the meet highlighted other contenders for the five Olympic spots, including Jordan Chiles and Jade Carey.
Injury struck during the competition as 2022 U.S. Champion Konnor McClain injured her Achilles during touch warm-ups. Despite the setback, McClain had a strong performance on beam before the injury. Looking ahead, the Xfinity U.S. Championships are set to take place in Ft. Worth, Texas in May, followed by the Olympic Trials in Minneapolis in June, and the 2024 Paris Olympic Games in July and August.
The Core Hydration Classic showcased Simone Biles’ dominance in the gymnastics world, as she continued her comeback after pulling out of the 2020 Olympics. With the Olympic Women’s Team selection fast approaching, the competition provided a glimpse into the field of contenders vying for a spot on the team. Despite some falls and injuries, athletes like Sunisa Lee, Jordan Chiles, and Jade Carey demonstrated their potential to represent the U.S. in the Paris Games. As the road to the Olympics continues, gymnastics fans can expect more thrilling competitions leading up to the ultimate showdown in Paris.
