By Tess Whittet
Sports Editor
Former Costa student Isabelle Connor leaps toward her goal of competing in rhythmic gymnastics in the Olympics by joining the United States National Team.
Connor is a member of the United States Olympic Preparatory Rhythmic Gymnastics team, also known as the United States National Team along with five other gymnasts. Connor attended Mira Costa High School until her senior year, however now lives in Chicago where she trains and is home schooled.
“The national team trains in Chicago at North Shore Gymnastics, so I had to move [there] last September,” Connor said.
Connor started doing gymnastics when she was two years old, and began rhythmic gymnastics at age 10 after coaches encouraged her to switch. Connor was placed on the team because she had the right body type for it, she said.
“I was excited to be able to compete in something I truly enjoyed. I knew from the beginning I wanted to stick with it no matter what,” Connor said. “I prefered the artistry, complexity, beauty and flexibility of rhythmic gymnastics over artistic gymnastics.”
Last summer at National Championships, Connor made it to the finals and placed 11th overall, allowing her to join the group team. Connor’s career in the sport continues to progress as she performs with her new team and fights for a chance at Olympics.
“When I made the national team, it was very surreal,” Connor said. “It was a goal I’ve had my entire career, and I didn’t really believe it was possible in the back of my mind.”
The United States National team consists of rhythmic gymnasts chosen from all over the country. Connor and her team train 32 hours a week, with double practices and ballet three times a week. Connor trains about four to seven hours daily and only has Saturdays as a break, she said.
“The best countries in the world in this sport have special schools for their athletes, and they train about 6-9 hours a day, so that is simply what is required at the world-class level,” Connor said. “Our hours are the best we can do while still going to school.”
Connor’s team could potentially compete in the next Olympics. To secure a spot on the Olympic team, they would have to qualify at the World Championships in Bulgaria in September 2018 and select five girls to attend.
“As of right now, I am not completely sure [if I’m planning to go to the Olympics],” Connor said. “I am leaning towards it because I have a chance at it, which a lot of people don’t have.”
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