Minneapolis celebrates start of U.S. Gymnastics Olympic Team Trials week with kickoff event

Minneapolis kicked off a vibrant celebration on Monday morning for the U.S. Gymnastics Olympic Team Trials, as elite gymnasts from across the nation, including stars like Simone Biles and local favorite Suni Lee, gathered in the Twin Cities ahead of the Summer Olympics in Paris. With over 6,000 athletes participating, the trials are a crucial platform for contenders to secure a coveted spot on the U.S. Olympic Team, drawing massive crowds of enthusiastic fans to Target Field Plaza, now transformed into "Gymnastics City, USA" with a range of entertainment options for all ages. The event received official recognition as Gov. Tim Walz declared this week as "Gymnastics City USA Week" in Minnesota, underscoring the significance of the trials in the state. The kickoff celebration saw prominent figures such as USA Gymnastics President Li Li Leung, Sen. Amy Klobuchar, and Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey coming together to express their support and excitement for the upcoming competitions. Leung highlighted the shared enthusiasm of Minneapolis and Minnesota for hosting this prestigious event, emphasizing the community's anticipation to witness top-tier gymnastics action. Throughout the week, downtown Minneapolis will be abuzz with various events, including training sessions and competitions at the Minneapolis Convention Center, leading up to the four-day trials at Target Center starting Thursday. Additionally, attendees can explore the Flip Zone outside, featuring interactive gymnastics equipment and a climbing wall, offering a hands-on experience for gymnastics enthusiasts of all ages. The trials serve as a crucial stepping stone for athletes aiming to represent the United States on the global stage, with the support of a dedicated fan base and a city pulsating with gymnastics fervor.