Jaycie Phelps Bows Out of U.S. Olympic Team Trials

Indianapolis – 1996 Olympic gold medalist Jaycie Phelps announced today that she will not attempt to make the 2000 Olympic gymnastics team.
Phelps, 20, withdrew from last month’s John Hancock U.S. Gymnastics Championships after re-inuring her right knee. Throughout her competitive career, Phelps has struggled with knee problems. Her left knee has been surgically repaired three times.
While I am disappointed I will not compete in Boston at next week’s Olympic Team Trials, I have no regrets about dedicating the last nine months of my life to achieve this goal,& said Phelps, who won gold in 1996 in Atlanta….

July 29, 2000

Indianapolis – 1996 Olympic gold medalist Jaycie Phelps announced today that she will not attempt to make the 2000 Olympic gymnastics team.

Phelps, 20, withdrew from last month’s John Hancock U.S. Gymnastics Championships after re-inuring her right knee. Throughout her competitive career, Phelps has struggled with knee problems. Her left knee has been surgically repaired three times.

While I am disappointed I will not compete in Boston at next week’s Olympic Team Trials, I have no regrets about dedicating the last nine months of my life to achieve this goal,& said Phelps, who won gold in 1996 in Atlanta. &There are many instances in life where we fight and struggle, but fall short of reaching our goals. The value is truly in the journey, not in the destination.&

She began her gymnastics comeback in November, 1999. Following re-examination of her knee, Phelps plans to evaluate a future return to competition.

Jaycie’s comeback has had a positive impact on our program,& said Bob Colarossi, USA Gymnastics President. &Jaycie’s leadership qualities are invaluable to USA Gymnastics, and we wish her all the best in her rehabilitation efforts.