Gymnasts Katelyn Ohashi and Jade Carey competed together at the 2026 U.S. Classic gymnastics competition on July 18 [1].
The event marks a significant return to elite competition for both athletes. Their performance at the Classic serves as a critical step in their efforts to qualify for the U.S. Championships.
Both athletes said the experience of competing alongside one another was fun. The pair are navigating the pressures of elite comebacks while attempting to regain their standing in the sport's top tier.
Ohashi said she felt a sense of comfort with her return to the arena. "I feel like I'm back in my element," Ohashi said [2].
Carey, an Olympic champion, also looked toward future improvements in her routine. "I have some upgrades for the championship," Carey said [2].
While the focus remained on the partnership and the comeback process, the competition featured high-level rivalry. Reports indicate that Reese Esponda won the U.S. Classic, finishing ahead of Carey [1].
The return of established names like Ohashi and Carey brings renewed attention to the qualifying cycle. Their presence adds a layer of veteran experience to a field of athletes vying for national championship spots.
“"I feel like I'm back in my element."”
The return of Ohashi and Carey to elite competition signals a trend of veteran athletes attempting second acts in gymnastics. Their participation at the U.S. Classic not only affects the qualification standings for the U.S. Championships but also increases the commercial and viewership appeal of the domestic gymnastics circuit.
