Filipina gymnast Aleah Finnegan has been feeling a mix of emotions as she shared her experience at the Olympic Games.
The Olympic stage is where dreams are made, but sometimes the outcome isn’t what we hoped for.
Twenty-one-year-old Fil-Am Olympic gymnast Aleah Finnegan navigates a whirlwind of emotions as she concludes her campaign in women’s artistic gymnastics together with fellow Pinay gymnasts Emma Malabuyo and Levi Jung-Ruivivar.
Before the tournament, Aleah already faced moments when she nearly walked away from gymnastics, questioning if she could continue.
In 2021, Finnegan opted to retire from elite gymnastics and instead decided to focus on her college career at Louisiana State University (LSU).
Finnegan competed in the SEC Championships and various tournaments for LSU, showing no signs of pursuing her dream of one day competing in the world's biggest sporting event.
But in 2022, Finnegan was granted a new chance to pursue her Olympic dream, this time honoring her heritage and roots in the Philippines.
The Filipino American secured a spot for Paris 2024 by ranking among the top 14 eligible athletes in the women’s individual all-around qualification, finishing 32nd overall with a score of 51.366 points.
Her path to the Olympics has been paved with both immense challenges and incredible perseverance.
“We finished all the way through and on the back side, being really proud of myself for how I did today. But on the other side, a little disappointment in myself because I know what I’m capable of,” emotionally said Aleah.
Philippine Olympic gymnast Aleah Finnegan showcased a remarkable all-around performance, putting up a courageous effort in the Subdivision 3 qualification of the women’s artistic gymnastics event at the Paris 2024 Olympics.
She garnered a score of 13.733 in the women’s gymnastics vault, 11.466 in the balance beam, 12.566 in the uneven bars, and 12.733 in the floor exercise.
“No matter what, I’m walking here with my head held high; I have no regrets, and I’m just proud to represent the Philippines on the stage,” she added.
Even though the result wasn’t what she had hoped for, the very fact that she made it to this moment is a testament to her strength and resilience. This Olympic opportunity was more than just a competition; it was a chance to reclaim her dreams and prove her enduring passion for gymnastics.
Watch the full interview here: