Olympians Getting Older

[Terry]

We all noticed that our elite gymnasts are older this year than in previous Quads. Here is an interesting article from the WSJ discussing this phenomenon across the Olympic sport spectrum

http://www.wsj.com/articles/why-olympians-are-older-than-ever-1471563288

any thoughts?

 

[ldw4mlo]

Regarding gymnastics, it's timing. With a 16 cut off if you just miss it your next shot is 4 yrs making you at least 19.

Regarding the rest, better overall health and good sponsors to stay in the sport

"Kids" today are leaving the nest in general later as well.

 

[wandrewsjr]

One of the reason olympics gymanst's age is trending older is team size. There have always been one or two vets that stick around for a second O's. But with a team of seven, that meant 5 spots for younger gymnasts who weren't old enough last time. With a team of 5, 2 vets means 40% of the gymnasts are 20+.