Up next in our series of highlighting the 2016 J.O. national champions is the Junior E co-champion,

RACHEL BAUMANN.

Baumann trains at WOGA, and tied for all-around gold with a 38.35 to cap off a great level 10 season. As a former elite, she executes with poise and polish, and earned silver on vault and beam, as well. 

Prior to Nationals, Baumann was working through a wrist injury, so she focused on quality and consistency rather than numbers. Despite her pain, she knew it was her last meet of the year—her time to shine.

I had to give it everything I had. I felt confident and was excited to compete.

She hit her floor set, stuck both vaults, performed one of her very best bar routines with a stuck dismount, and finished up with a strong beam set to seal the deal.

FloGymnastics: What was the highlight of the meet?
Rachel Baumann: I was very excited to make a great beam routine. That was my favorite part of the meet! I loved ending with a solid routine, and I could even hear my sister cheering for me!

What’s next for you?
I had surgery on my wrist a week later. I want to come back and work on more upgrades to prepare for next season.

Baumann is committed to the University of Georgia for the 2018-2019 season.

Rapid-fire questions:

What do you love most about gymnastics?
Competitions

Did you play any other sports growing up? 
Soccer, ballet, and tennis

What is your favorite movie?
"White House Down"

Name one person who has had a huge impact on your involvement in gymnastics and how that person is connected to you.
Alyssa, my sister; she pushes me to be my best everyday.

What is your favorite event and why? 
Beam—it is my best event in my opinion, and I love learning new skills on beam!

How old were you when you started gymnastics and how did you get involved?
I started when I was three years old; I wanted to follow in my sister’s footsteps. 

What’s the best vacation you’ve ever been on? 
The Bahamas


Related:
These NCAA Teams Had the Best Showing at 2016 J.O. Nationals
Top Routines on Each Event at J.O. Nationals
Results: Level 10 J.O. Nationals