Yesterday all of us went to the arena to cheer on Danell and Steve for the all-around final.  It’s definitely tough on the body when you have to compete two days in a row.  Your body takes a pretty good beating each time you compete but Danell and Steve both did a great job finishing 7th and 10th, respectively.  As I said before, since we are a young team there is a lot that needs to be learned, however, this competition was definitely a great experience for all of us. There’s no doubt in my mind though that all of us will use this meet as motivation when we get back to our own gyms.

After the competition, all the participants, including the athletes, coaches, etc etc went to a farewell party.  The party took place at a yacht club which was about 40 minutes from our hotel.  Again, the Japanese delegation did an awesome job with all the accommodation and being hospitable.  Not only was the venue really nice but that food was also really good (actually not that surprising considering any kind of food is good here)!

US Team @ the banquet

The party was fun because all the athletes from all participating countries were able to get together and just hang out.  I always find it cool that we can become good friends even though we are always very competitive on the competition floor.  I guess this is something that they call “friendly rivalry.”  When I really think about it, it’s hard not to become good friends because we all have so much in common.

Left - Kohei Uchimura (Olympic All-Around silver medalist), Right - Koji Yamamuro

Right - Zhang Jing, Right - He Kexin (Olympic Gold medalist on Uneven Bars)

Right - Fabian Hambuchen (World Champion on High Bar)

Anyway, we leave tomorrow to go back to the states.  First thing I’m gonna do when I get back is go to the doctor to get my knee checked.  Even though it’s a bit stiff, I’ve been able to stand so I’m hoping it’s nothing too serious.  I’ll just keep my finger crossed for now!