Maya Bordas of Capital Gymnastics tied for first all-around at the 2017 J.O. National Championships with a 38.425 in the Senior C age division last month in Indianapolis. In our ongoing series featuring the all-around champions from J.O. Nationals, hear straight from Bordas following the competition of her life:

FloGymnastics: How was your training leading up to J.O.s?

Bordas: In the week leading up to nationals, I had been hitting my routines consistently. It really felt like everything was coming together, so I went into the meet feeling fully prepared, which is always reassuring. 

What was your best event?

My best event was vault, and I was super happy because I stuck my second competition one!

Video via USA Gymnastics

What was your favorite event to compete?

Floor has always been a favorite of mine to compete because you're able to let loose and have fun with it. Like all the other events, I get nervous before I compete floor but also genuinely excited because I always have a blast out there.

Video via USA Gymnastics

How were your nerves during the meet?

At the start of the meet, I was very nervous, but I think having beam first actually helped! Beam is the most nerve-racking to compete for me, and although I was a bit shaky, once I finished my nerves settled.

When did you find out that you won and how did it feel?

I found out that I had tied for first AA after I finished bars. I was just grateful that I finished off the meet with a solid routine. When I was taking off my grips, my coach came by to tell me that I had won the all-around, but I don't think it completely sunk in until I was standing on the podium. It was surreal. I was just grateful that all the work I put in paid off. 

Rapid-Fire Questions

What is the hardest thing about being in this sport?

The injuries and the time commitment.

Did you play any other sports growing up? 

I swam on a swim team for about three years when I was younger, but I had to give it up when the schedule started to conflict with gymnastics.

If you had to switch to a different sport right now, which would you choose?

I've always wanted to try track. I've never had the time to try it, but I feel like I might be good at it.

What is your favorite healthy food and favorite junk food?

My favorite healthy food would have to be sushi -- I have it after almost every meet. Ice cream is my go-to dessert!

What keeps you motivated in the gym? 

My teammates -- they're the best!

Are you a morning person or a night owl?

I would say I'm more of a night owl. Between school, gym, and then homework, I really don't have a choice!


Bordas will close out her J.O. career next year and will continue her gymnastics journey at the University of Illinois, where she is committed for 2018-2019.


Related:
Makarri Doggette Overcomes Obstacles To Become Buckeye's First JO AA Champ