The Talladega Gymnastics team continues to make history.
Kyrstin Johnson’s victory in the vault at the USA Gymnastics Nationals last week marked the first time a gymnast from an HBCU in the state of Alabama claimed a national title.
“Competition breeds excellence, and Kyrstin’s victory on the vault at the national level is a testament to her dedication, skill, and unwavering determination,” said Aja Sims-Fletcher, Talladega gymnastics coach, after Johnson’s victory. “Her accomplishment is not just a win for her but a celebration of the countless hours of hard work and sacrifice she put into her craft.
As she stands atop the podium as a national champion, she not only inspires admiration but also serves as a beacon of hope for aspiring HBCU athletes everywhere.”
The freshman gymnast scored a 9.875 in the finals to vault from second place to first, edging out Texas Women’s College Kaitlyn Holland and Cornell’s Sydney Beers.
Woo Hooooooo!!! I am the 2024 National Vault Champion!! I also tied for 2nd on Floor! I could not have asked or even dreamed of this type of season. I'M ONLY A FRESHIE!!! 😂 Thank you coach @asims_fletcher, coach @Wendy Carey and coach @Zan Jones. TC!!!!!! pic.twitter.com/YNFuwZbx0T
— Kyrstin Johnson (@KjFlips05) April 15, 2024
Johnson, who was the first ever commit to Talladega’s Gymnastics program, also made it to the podium on two other occasions, placing second in the floor exercise (9.8625) on Sunday and third in Friday’s All-Around event (39.05). Her exploits also earned Johnson First Team All-America in all four events.
Johnson became the second HBCU collegiate national champion, joining Fisk’s Morgan Price, which took top honors in the All-Around.
