48-year-old gymnast ready for Berlin Games

abu dhabi — For 48-year-old Tonya Cornett, sports is a way of life. The American has tried her hands at half-a-dozen of them. Tonya from Kentucky is a veteran gymnast and won five medals now – 2 silver and 3 bronze – at Special Olympics World Games Abu Dhabi 2019. And her next aim is Berlin Games 2023.

“I was always into sports. I started with softball but I couldn’t hit well. I tried cricket but it had a bigger bat. I had to quit. Those were sad days. But I continued. You can’t give up like that. I did bowling, downhill skiing, golf and swimming. Then I heard about gymnastics academy. I loved it very much as I joined there with friends from my swim team,” Tonya said, highlighting the importance of support base being a key aspect to boosting confidence in a special athlete. “My parents, brother, friends, uncles and aunts are my big support group. They all go crazy when I am at the games.”

Her first World Games was Ireland 2003. Tonya believes Special Olympics transforms lives of athletes.

“I have won five medals here in vault, bars, beam, floor and all around. This is my best time ever. I did a perfect back-roll on hand stand. I never thought I would be able to do it.”

Tonya is returning with not just medals but lots of precious memories.

“I have seen some of the best people ever. I saw one volunteer wipe away tears of an athlete and give a hug. I myself needed a tissue then. Such gestures mean a lot to us.”

There is no time to rest for her as preparations start for Germany 2023.

“I need to get back and work. I train 3-4 hours a day and go to gym. By next games, I will be 52 but I will never give up. You eat, sleep and breathe it. You want to get higher and do better. There is no time to rest because if you stop then someone else is going to take your spot,” Tonya signed off with a life lesson.

By next games, I will be 52 but I will never give up. You eat, sleep and breathe it. You want to get higher and do better.” Tonya Cornett,

American gymnast