Here is the second World Cup Trampoline Competition that I have commentated for Acrobatic Sports TV. Enjoy all the thrills by clicking the link below (Note that the audio & video in the first event, Women’s Synchronized, is not … synchronized.):

http://www.acrobaticsports.tv/index.php?page=videos&video=24#24

(While I’m improving, feedback is still welcome. Thank you.)

Perhaps my most coming-of-age experience (next to my first trip to Russia) was a trip I took to Egypt with a group of American trampolinists and gymnasts to promote our sports.  The lessons I learned would befit a novel. But, appreciation for the opportunities young Americans have ranked among the most valuable.

I recall a young Egyptian gymnast who recorded her floor-exercise routine music straight from television. It was the music from Nadia Comanici’s 1976 Olympics floor exercise final routine, including commentary, applause and all.  The national Egyptian gymnastics program was in its most infant stage then, with minimal financial resources, modern equipment and knowledge.  Therefore, it was no surprise that the girl’s choreography was sophomoric and her tumbling skills were nill.  However, Islamic Arabic countries discourage women from participating in sports. So, I realized that it took a lot of courage for this girl to practice and perform gymnastics in public, particularly in a revealing leotard and with nominal ability.  I admired her heart and I really appreciated the opportunities that I have been afforded.

There is no video of the Egyptian girl, but there are plenty of Nadia.  Remember this?

The trampoline event ended up much like expected, with a few missteps from top contenders. But, that’s sport.  What surprised me was the results of the Men’s Platform Diving event.  The winner, Mathew Mitcham, who was not Chinese, but Australian … and he was a World Double Mini-tramp Champion (2001 Junior World Champ).  

This is significant in several ways. (more…)

The local newspaper in my home town, The Advertiser, published a couple of wonderful articles about local connection to Olympics in China.  When you get a chance, check them out: Blanchard Relishes Olympics Spotlight and The Godfather of Trampoline in the US.   (more…)

Two Louisiana athletes, Erin Blanchard and Chris Estrada, made the USA’s 2008 Olympic Trampoline Team this week. Considering that only 12 countries qualify to participate in this event, and only one male and one female per qualifying country can earn a spot to compete, this is a huge accomplishment for Lafayette’s shining stars. (more…)