Kaliya Lincoln: Rising Star in American Gymnastics

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Kaliya Lincoln, born on April 23, 2006, is an emerging force in American artistic gymnastics. Known for her remarkable performances and consistency, she has made a significant mark in both junior and senior gymnastics. Her accolades include being the 2023 Pan American gymnastics Games champion in the floor exercise and team events, as well as the 2021 Junior Pan American champion on vault and floor. This blog explores her journey, achievements, and contributions to the world of gymnastics.

Early Life and Introduction to Gymnastics

Kaliya Lincoln’s gymnastics journey began early, driven by her innate talent and passion for the sport. As a 12-year-old, she was coached by her hero Gabby Douglas, the first Black gymnast to win an individual gold medal at the Olympic Games. This early mentorship played a significant role in shaping her career, providing her with inspiration and valuable guidance from one of the best in the sport.

Junior Gymnastics Career

International Gymnix 2020

In 2020, Lincoln was selected to compete at the International Gymnix, alongside notable gymnasts like Skye Blakely, Katelyn Jong, and Konnor McClain. Her performance was outstanding, helping the USA team clinch the gold medal. This achievement earned her a spot on the junior national team, marking the beginning of her rise in the gymnastics world.

Womans Gymnast Kaliya Lincoln looks like Gabby Douglas

Kayla’s 2021 American gymnastics Season

The 2021 season was a breakthrough year for Lincoln. She competed at the Winter Cup, placing 14th in the all-around. Her performance improved at the U.S. Classic, where she secured first place on the floor exercise and third on vault. At her first National Championships, she continued to impress, finishing first on floor exercise and third in the all-around with a combined score of 104.650.

Kayla Lincoln’s stellar performance earned her a place on the team representing the United States at the 2021 Junior Pan American Championships, alongside Kailin Chio, Madray Johnson, and Katelyn Jong. Here, she helped the USA team win gold and individually claimed gold medals on vault and floor exercise.

Kayla’s Senior Gymnastics Career

2023: A Year of Milestones

Lincoln’s senior debut in 2023 was nothing short of spectacular. She kicked off the year by winning gold on floor exercise at the Winter Cup. At the U.S. Classic, she tied with Joscelyn Roberson for silver on floor exercise, further establishing her presence in senior gymnastics.

The 2023 National Championships saw Lincoln win silver on floor exercise, finishing behind the legendary Simone Biles. Her impressive performances led to her selection for the 2023 Pan American Games team, alongside Jordan Chiles, Kayla DiCello, Zoe Miller, and Tiana Sumanasekera. At the Pan American Games, Lincoln won gold in the floor exercise and contributed to the USA team’s gold medal victory. She also qualified for the balance beam final, finishing sixth.

Kaliya Lincoln’s Pan American Gymnastic Games Triumph

At the Pan American Games in Santiago, Chile, Kaliya Lincoln showcased her talent on a grand stage. The 17-year-old newcomer won the gold medal on floor exercise, adding 14.233 points to her name. She beat out strong competitors, including her compatriot Kayla DiCello, the Pan American all-around champion, and Brazilian gymnast Flávia Saraiva, who both shared the silver with 13.733 points.

Reflecting on her journey, Lincoln said, “It has been quite a year. I have to keep it up, there are so many great athletes out there. Being part of this team is a privilege; I think I have already learned that from some of the best.”

Signing with LSU Tigers

In November 2023, Lincoln took a significant step in her career by signing her National Letter of Intent with the LSU Tigers, signaling her commitment to continue her gymnastics journey at the collegiate level.

What to expect from American Gymnastics 2024 Competitive Season?

Lincoln’s 2024 season had a rocky start as she withdrew from the U.S. National Gymnastics Championships after the first two rotations. Despite this setback, she successfully petitioned for a spot to compete at the 2024 United States Olympic trials, showcasing her resilience and determination to succeed.

Competitive History

Lincoln’s competitive history is a testament to her skill and dedication. Here are some key highlights from her junior and senior gymnastics careers:

Junior Competitions

  • 2020 International Gymnix: Gold medalist in team event
  • 2021 Winter Cup: 14th in all-around, 5th on vault, 6th on floor exercise
  • 2021 U.S. Classic: American gymnastics Bronze medalist in all-around, gold medalist on floor exercise
  • 2021 U.S. National Championships: Bronze medalist in all-around, 4th on vault, 1st on floor exercise
  • 2021 Pan American Championships: Gold medalist in team, vault, and floor exercise

Senior Competitions

  • 2023 Winter Cup: Gold medalist on floor exercise
  • 2023 U.S. Classic: 27th in all-around, silver medalist on floor exercise
  • 2023 U.S. National Championships: 27th in all-around, 9th on balance beam, silver medalist on floor exercise
  • 2023 Pan American Games: American gymnastics Gold medalist in team and floor exercise, 6th on balance beam
  • 2024 Winter Cup: 16th on balance beam, silver medalist on floor exercise
  • 2024 U.S. Classic: 10th in all-around, silver medalist on floor exercise
  • 2024 U.S. National Championships: Withdrew after first two rotations

What was Kaliya’s Journey to becoming a star gymnast?

Kaliya Lincoln’s journey in gymnastics is complemented by her personal life and future aspirations. Born and raised in the United States, she has balanced her academic pursuits with her athletic career. Her decision to join the LSU Tigers reflects her commitment to furthering her education while continuing to excel in gymnastics.

As she looks ahead to the 2024 United States Olympic trials, Lincoln remains focused on her goals, determined to make a significant impact on the international stage. Her journey is a testament to her resilience, talent, and unwavering dedication to the sport.

Kaliya Lincoln’s rise in American gymnastics is a story of passion, dedication, and exceptional talent. From her early days in junior competitions to her impressive senior debut, she has consistently demonstrated her prowess and determination. As she continues to make strides in her career, fans and aspiring gymnasts alike can look forward to witnessing her remarkable journey and contributions to the sport. With her eyes set on future achievements, Kaliya Lincoln is undoubtedly a name to watch in the world of gymnastics.