For the average viewer of gymnastics, watching a gymnast fall or mess up on their routine has a certain comedic element.
Hardcore gym fans however know that every mistake can wind up costing more than just deductions.
The 2016 NCAA gymnastics season is in full swing and many eyes have been on UCLA freshman, Katelyn Ohashi. Unfortunately, the promising athlete may not be competing anytime soon, due to a sternal fracture that she sustained during her beam routine in the UCLA vs Arizona gymnastics meet on Jan. 23.
According to the Daily Bruin, Ohashi had originally been cleared to compete after the fall. She had eventually performed her beam routine again at the meet and was later evaluated by UCLA physicians. However, Ohashi then reported pain in her sternum last week and was found to have a fracture.
It is currently unknown how long it may take for Ohashi to recover, but she will sit out until she no longer has any symptoms related to the fracture.
Despite the initial incident on beam, Ohashi reportedly won the All-around title of the meet with a score of 39.375. Ohashi's excellent scores contributed to the overall win for UCLA. UCLA, who is the fifth ranked team in NCAA gymnastics, currently has a record of 2-2 and will face off against Feb. 6 against Utah.
Ohashi's injury is perhaps even more disappointing considering her previous success in Elite gymnastics. Her awards include five gold medals at the 2012 Junior Pacific Rim championships, winning All-around at the 2011 U.S. Junior Championships, and her previously mentioned senior elite career highlight of winning the 2013 American Cup All-Around title.
Though there's much uncertainty regarding Ohashi's future in this season of NCAA gymnastics, here's hoping for a speedy recovery.
