Next stop: Hartford, Connecticut. The 2026 U.S. Classic competition concludes the final preparations for August’s U.S. Championships, gathering top female gymnasts to compete for medals, competitive experience, and national qualification from July 17-18.
The 2028 Los Angeles Olympics looms two years away, elevating this year’s competition with a stronger field. Recent comeback announcements hint at intensified rivalries. This roundup highlights the standout athletes competing at the 2026 U.S. Classic.
Ten Athletes to Watch at the U.S. Classic
1. Katelyn Ohashi
Former UCLA Gymnastics star and two-time NCAA champion Katelyn Ohashi has staged a remarkable comeback after a 13-year hiatus. Returning to elite competition in June at the American Classic, she aims to secure qualification for the U.S. Championships in Phoenix with a minimum score of 26.800. Though edged by 2.15 points in her comeback performance (24.650), Ohashi enters Hartford with determination as a senior elite gymnast.
2. Jade Carey
Olympic medalist Jade Carey, the sole Olympian in Hartford, is poised to compete in her seventh U.S. Classic. After a two-year hiatus, she returned at the American Classic, earning all-around silver and qualifying for nationals in Phoenix. Carey will vie again for hardware in Hartford, building on her consistent performance across vault and floor.
3. Leanne Wong
Five-time World medalist Leanne Wong, a regular at the U.S. Classic, will compete in her ninth event this weekend. Her 2022 all-around victory at the U.S. Classic underscores her consistency. Competing against former teammates like Skye Blakely, Wong focuses on securing another World Championship berth for Team USA.
4. Skye Blakely
FORT WORTH, TEXAS – APRIL 18: Skye Blakely of the University of Florida performs on the floor exercise during the NCAA Women’s Gymnastics Championship at Dickies Arena on April 18, 2026 in Fort Worth, Texas. (Photo by Alicia Malnati/Getty Images)
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Skye Blakely returns to elite competition after overcoming an Achilles injury that derailed her 2024 Olympic aspirations. The 21-year-old resumed form in 2025, tying for gold on uneven bars at the U.S. Championships and placing fourth globally. In 2026, she brings expanded event expertise to Hartford.
5. Simone Rose
18-year-old Simone Rose, a University of Florida commit, showcased major upgrades at the 2026 Pan American Championships. Leading Team USA to gold, she earned individual silver on the balance beam. As the 2026 season intensifies, Rose is positioning herself as a contender.
6. Dulcy Caylor
JAKARTA, INDONESIA – OCTOBER 25: Dulcy Caylor of Team United States competes in the Women’s floor exercise apparatus final on day seven of the Artistic Gymnastics World Championships at Indonesia Arena on October 25, 2025 in Jakarta, Indonesia. (Photo by Yong Teck Lim/Getty Images)
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Dulcy Caylor earned global experience at the 2025 World Championships after qualifying for three finals. Though medal-less in Jakarta, her World Championship debut solidified her status as a rising talent entering 2026.
7. Tatum Drusch
18-year-old Tatum Drusch enters Hartford on a strong trajectory. After overcoming a meniscus tear, she claimed all-around gold at the American Classic and balanced beam titles in 2025 events. Ready to defend her USA successes, Drusch aims to secure podium finishes.
8. Reese Esponda
Reese Esponda, from World Champions Centre, combines powerhouse floor skills with consistency. Her gold at the City of Jesolo Trophy with an upgraded routine highlights her 2026 potential, as she shifts from peripheral contender to podium candidate.
9. Caroline Moreau
Caroline Moreau, a first-year senior and defending junior U.S. Champion, started 2026 strongly. Placing fifth in her senior debut at the Winter Cup and contributing to Team USA’s gold at the Jesolo Trophy, Moreau is emerging as a key team member.
10. Ally Damelio
Ally Damelio distinguishes herself with elite uneven bars skills, including the rare “Seitz” release. Recognized internationally for her difficulty, she represents an underdog story with global aspiration potential.