Kolkata, Jul 24: Hard work, dedication, and consistency can take you a long way. Even to the history books. And Romina Gupta, teenager of Indian-origin, knows exactly how.
And if she does manage to pick up a medal in China next year – which she is expected to – Romina will join the likes of Indian-Americans Mohini Bharadwaj (Silver for US in the 2004 Olympics), and Stephen Raj Bhavsar (bronze for US in the 2008 Olympics), in winning medals at the highest stage.
"Being named a US national team member has been a whirlwind experience for me. I know the road to the World Championships will be tough, but I will work my hardest to fulfill my dreams," Romina told the Times of India.
Romina is seen as one of the elite athletets already when it comes to acrobatic gymnastics. Her elegant displays of flair in the sport made her bag golds and silvers in three back-to-back US Nationals – 2013, 2014, and 2015, respectively.
Along with her teammates Anika Rix and Caitlynn Guzman, the Indian-origin girl competed in the USA gymnastics national championships in the most competitive 'elite' category at the at the Greensboro Coliseum in North Carolina.
The trio fought to make it to Team USA, and their wishes were fulfilled.
And there is no achievement possible without the strong support of family. The 17-year-old's mother is one proud woman today as she says that her daughter is working to creating an NGO that helps young girls get their much-needed motivation through gymnastics.
"Romina trains for four hours a day, seven days a week. She hopes to bring the sport to India some day. She is also working on creating an NGO that can help at-risk young girls use gymnastics to gain self-esteem," said Romina's mother, Reenita Gupta.
Romina also quickly quips, "I could not have done it without my family. I will not only represent the US, but Kolkata as well — and my family members who have inspired me to be what I am today."
A gymnast for the last 14 years, Romina started off as an artistic gymnast initially, but health issues forced her to give it up. She then concentrated on diving and track athletics, before zeroing in on acrobatic gymnastics.
Acrobatic gymnastics, unlike the more popular version, is a team event, where no particular equipment is used.
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