In separate announcements this week, it was revealed that London 2012 gold medalists Gabrielle Douglas and Jordyn Wieber have different plans for the year 2013. The gymnasts, who have just completed the Kelloggs Tour of Champions following the Olympic Games have been speaking with their coaches who have revealed their plans.
On his Facebook page on Friday, John Geddert who had his first Olympic success with Jordyn Wieber, said that she plans to compete in 2013:
Its my birthday and the world was supposed to end, now that would have been a unique birthday present. Instead I got one that is much better, actually one of my favorite gifts ever. Jordyn informed me that she wants to start training again seriously and intends to compete at Championships in August. One step at a time of course, but what a great birthday present. Have to say I am a bit geeked about this….
On the same day, All Around London 2012 gold medalist Douglas was named the Associated Press’ Female Athlete of the Year and coach Liang Chow told the Des Moines Register that his gymnast does not plan to compete in 2013:
“She deserves to enjoy for herself all the sunshine stuff,”.
“When it’s time for her to come back, she will know it.”
Douglas herself told media at the event that she is still aiming for Rio 2016 but no female Olympic champion has gone on to compete at the next Summer Games since Nadia Comaneci.
Both gymnasts, along with Aly Raisman, have signed on to do another three month tour, leaving little room for Wieber to prepare herself for the 2013 US Championships in August.
To be honest I’m not surprised my this announcement. I knew it was going to pan out this way. I think Wieber has something to prove while Douglas has the highest award that a female gymnast can obtain. This will be another Liukin story when it comes to Douglas.
Geez can I learn how to speak English. it should read by not my
As in Douglas will deide later on that she’ll compete again?