Best Gold Series of 2014 - #1: Beyond the Routine: Texas Dreams

As 2014 draws to a close, we are going back over the very best moments, meets, videos, and athletes from the entire year. Today we are listing our best Gymnastike Gold series of the year and our number one series of 2014 is Beyond the Routine: Texas Dreams.

This epic five part series shows Texas Dreams from when is was a tiny idea in the back of Kim Zmeskal and Chris Burdette’s heads to now, years later, where they have the largest elite team in the country. Their four current national team members, Bailie Key, Peyton Ernst, Nica Hults, and Ragan Smith, are all featured in depth and we also feature the other dream team members including Grace Quinn and Macy Toronjo.

Watch the inspiring trailer below.


 

 

Episode 1: Building the #1 Elite Gym from Scratch

Episode one is centered around Kim and Chris and they tell the story of how Texas Dreams began. Kim goes through her career and what lead her to coaching and tells us how her passion for gymnastics still burns brightly. The gymnasts tell us the advantages to having a big elite team and how they are able to push each other daily.
 

Episode 2: Bailie Key- The Leader of the Dream Team

Episode two features Bailie Key and goes through her story including when she began gymnastics, when she moved to Texas Dreams with Macy, and when she became the US Junior National Champion. Bailie has incredible natural talent and Kim described her as eye catching. The sky is the limit for Bailie and we are looking forward to watching her grow the next few years.

 

Episode 3: Peyton Ernst- Breaking Through

Peyton Ernst is featured in episode three and as we tell Peyton’s story, it is clear that while her talent is important, her drive and determination have gotten her to where she is today. Peyton had a breakout year last season and is looking to continue that this fall with the goal of World Championships.

 

Episode 4: Young and Famous


The final episode features Ragan Smith and Nica Hults and looks toward the future of Texas Dreams. Ragan and her mother tell us about their move to Texas and how Ragan has fit in. Nica tells her emotional story about her proudest gymnastics accomplishment- accepting a scholarship to UCLA. We also look at how social media plays a role in the fame of these young gymnasts. Finally, Kim and Chris explain that Martha Karolyi and Bela Karolyi have always stressed the importance of bringing up the next generation. While you want to give every gymnast their best shot, you never know how the cards will end up and it’s crucial to have your next group of gymnasts prepared. Kim and Chris have done this and their up and coming elites have a bright future.


Bonus Episode




Related:
Best of 2014 Master List
#2 Best Gold Series
#3 Best Gold Series