The world’s top gymnast withdraws from the Olympic Games to focus on her mental health Image Credit: Ador Bustamante/Gulf News
I have perfected the commando roll. I only deploy it sparingly and it has never been scored by those who judge gymnastics but I am convinced it is worthy of full 10s.
I used it at Dubai Marina once when I stumbled on a piece of rebar steel that was left poking out of the footpath. Over I went, head over heels, only to pop up in a single movement without almost missing a beat. I don’t like to practice it, preferring to let it come naturally not like Olympic gymnasts who must practice for hours on end every day of every week.
Smith had an impressive showing at the 2021 National Championships in Daytona Beach, Fla. finishing first on floor and second in the all-around competition.