Time: 2024-07-29
PARIS - Aleah Finnegan , a rising senior at LSU Gymnastics , recently made a historic Olympic debut at the 2024 Paris Games in Bercy Arena . She became the first Filipina gymnast to compete in the Olympics in six decades , following in the footsteps of Maria - Luisa Floro and Evelyn Magluyan in the 1964 edition . Finnegan 's journey to the Olympics was a remarkable one , as she also made history by being the first active LSU Gymnast to become an Olympian . The Lees Summit , Missouri , native competed as one of three individuals for Team Philippines , showcasing her skills with an all - around score of 50.498 in subdivision three . Despite starting the competition with a shaky performance on the beam , Finnegan delivered a strong floor routine and excelled in the vault and bars rotations , leaving a lasting impression on the world stage in Paris.
Aleah Finnegan 's road to the Olympics was paved with challenges and moments of doubt . Three years ago , she believed her elite gymnastics career had come to an end after a disappointing experience at the U.S. Olympic trials . However , a new opportunity arose when she was approached by the Gymnastics Association of the Philippines to represent her mother 's native country . Finnegan 's decision to return to elite gymnastics led to her qualification for the Paris Games , a remarkable achievement that once seemed unimaginable . Alongside fellow Filipino Americans Emma Malabuyo and Levi Jung - Ruivivar , Finnegan aims to inspire and promote the sport of women 's artistic gymnastics in the Philippines . Their journey to the Olympics has been a testament to resilience , determination , and the pursuit of dreams against all odds.
The bond between Aleah Finnegan , Emma Malabuyo , and Levi Jung - Ruivivar transcends borders and competition as they navigate the complexities of elite gymnastics . Despite facing setbacks and challenges in the U.S. program , these three gymnasts found a new path to the Olympics through representing the Philippines . Their shared experiences in the lead - up to the Games , from training together to competing as individuals , have forged a strong friendship and camaraderie . As they prepare to showcase their skills on the Olympic stage , Finnegan , Malabuyo , and Jung - Ruivivar embody the spirit of unity , perseverance , and the pursuit of excellence.
The journey of Aleah Finnegan , Emma Malabuyo , and Levi Jung - Ruivivar from college athletes to Olympic contenders is a testament to their unwavering dedication and passion for gymnastics . Despite initial doubts and setbacks , these three gymnasts seized the opportunity to represent the Philippines at the highest level of competition . Through their shared experiences , trials , and triumphs , Finnegan , Malabuyo , and Jung - Ruivivar have rewritten their Olympic destinies and inspired a new generation of gymnasts in the Philippines . As they make their mark on the world stage in Paris , these remarkable athletes continue to embody the Olympic spirit of perseverance , unity , and athletic excellence.
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