PINEVILLE, La. - In Cenla, there are young kids who are already looking ahead to the future, with dreams of representing the red, white and blue. News Channel 5's Nolan Crane shows us how some young gymnasts are preparing to become future Olympians.
Alexis Martin was three years old when she first put on a leotard and took to the mats, doing her favorite routine, the floor exercise.
"I love flipping and it feels like I'm flying when I flip," says Alexis Martin.
Eight years later, she has spent countless hours flipping and springing into action.
"I come here three days a week and we usually practice 3 hours, 4 hours," Martin says.
This kind of dedication is what the Red River Gymnastics owner says athletes like Alexis needs to make it all the way to the top of their field.
"A lot of these young girls get very excited about being an Olympian, but when they get in the gym they realize how much hard work it does take," says Phil Fuselier.
"I would like to become an Olympic gymnast just to see how it's like for them and to know how hard they have to work," says Megan Badeaux.
Alexis says she has the dedication it takes to make it to the Olympics like some of her heroes.
"I love gymnastics, that's why I'm doing gymnastics right now and it's my dream to become an Olympian," Martin says.
Her mom takes pride in seeing her daughter's work ethic, and she says the hard work is paying off.
"The past three years, she has been the top third contestant across the nation. We do send her every summer to Bela Karolyi's Olympic training facility," says Christyl Dean.
For the next couple of weeks, these girls will take just a little extra time off, to watch their heroes and root for their team.
"Go USA."
If you want more information about Red River Gymnastics, you can visit www.redrivergymnastics.com
