Cheryl Johnson Huban
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Real Adventures . . . Discover Gymnastics

When Megan hopped on the balance beam during her gymnastics adventure, she had no idea how much dedication gymnists must have to become one of the best. Fourteen-year-old Kristin Thome, (pronounced Toe-may,) and her thirteen-year-old sister, Brittany, do. They are members of the Junior International Gymnastic Team. Team Members are the twenty best gymnasts of their age group in the entire country.

Both girls started gymnastics when they were two years old. They enjoyed tumbling and stretching even better than pre-school. Continuing classes led to competition in meets. Now they compete with gymnasts from all around the world.

Competition is based on levels. Once past Level Eight, Kristin and Brittany had to make a big decision: dedicate themselves to the sport or continue just for fun. Both girls decided to pursue the thrill fo becoming one of the best.

Being the best makes for a busy schedule, though. Kristin attends morning classes at the local high school now, but up until 8th grade, both girls have been home-schooled by mom. With such little free time, they have to select other activiites carefully. They both have close friends at the gym and school, and they talk on the phone to keep in touch. Kristin describes herself as a bookworm and Brittany finds time to play soccer with her sister, Lauren.

The best part is the meets. Kristin says she can almost feel the crowd's enthusiasm, especially during floor exercises. Brittany still gets nervous and says sometimes it's difficult to set her mind to what she has to do. The joy for both of them comes from knowing they did well.

Win or lose, even after the long hours of practice, both girls say they still love gymnastics. "It's a part of my life, I even love watching meets on TV," Brittany says. "It is something I will always do."



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