Catching up with Australia’s Georgia Simpson before the American Cup

Gymnastike spoke with 7th place American Cup finisher, Georgia Simpson of Australia, the day before the American Cup.  The charming 17-year-old was delighted to be competing in the American Cup, and to be visiting the United States for the first time.  Georgia is in the midst of three very busy weeks in North America -- look for her trademark beautiful lines and artistry at L'International Gymnix in Canada March 8-11, 2012 and at the Pacific Rim Championships March 15-18, 2012. 

Georgia at the London test event in January 2012.  Photo by Paul Gilham/Getty Images Europe

Gymnastike:  Georgia, this is your second competition of the Olympic year.  What are your goals today?

Georgia:   . . . .  I’m really just here for the big experience.  It’s really exciting for me.  I’m really pumped to be here.  This is actually my first trip to America.  It’s just so exciting.  I’m just here to get the experience, see all the arena.  Just get a feel for the competition.  I’m here for the experience.

Gymnastike:  Do you have any upgrades since we last saw you at the test event?

Georgia:  Yes, I do.  On floor, I’ve got my full in and front salt through to double tuck.  On vault, I’ve got Yurchencko full now.  On beam, I put in my Yang Bo and side aerial.  On bars, I’ve got stalder to connection shap.  I’m getting really pumped to show those. 

Gymnastike:  Wow, what are you most looking forward to of those upgrades?

Georgia:  I think, well, all of them.  But I think floor, just because I’ve always wanted to show that I can do floor.  That always gave me jitters.  So I want to show I can do floor well. 

Gymnastike:  What are you most looking forward to about being in the United States for the first time?

Georgia:  I don’t know.  It’s just such an exciting place.  Just like getting the atmosphere, just seeing all the bright lights, taking it all in pretty much. 

Gymnastike:  Thanks so much.  Good luck.   

Georgia:  Thanks.