Laurie Hernandez

Laurie Hernandez, born and raised in New Jersey, took to gymnastics at a young age. By the time she turned 12, she was already competing, making her debut at the 2012 U.S. Classic in the juniors division. She didn't win right away, but she did well enough to make the trip to the National Championships later that year. In 2013, she started to edge out her competition more, consistently placing in the top three of events she participated in. Hernandez took a step back in 2014 as she slipped off a beam and missed six months of action. She rebounded strongly the next year - her last competing in the junior class. By the start of 2016, she was competing in the senior division. Her first event was the City of Jesolo Trophy, where she earned a gold, a silver, and a bronze. At the Pacific Rim Championships, she was paired with fellow American gymnast Simone Biles and other dominant athletes and the group earned the gold medal for all-around team. Her success led her to a chance at the Olympic Trials, where she earned a spot on the American team alongside Biles. At the 2016 Rio de Janeiro Olympic Games, Hernandez earned a gold medal for all-around team and a silver medal for balance beam, beating renowned teammate Biles in the latter. After her success in Rio, Hernandez joined the contestants on "Dancing with the Stars" (ABC 2005), competing against fellow Olympian Ryan Lochte, rapper Vanilla Ice, model Amber Rose, and more.