1. Hezly’s gymnastics journey began at a friend’s birthday party at a gymnastics facility when she was just five-years-old. Her talent was so evident that the staff suggested she try out for the team, and the rest is history!
2. Hezly is officially the youngest athlete across all sports divisions for Team USA heading to the Paris Olympics, making history at just 16-years-old.
3. Being 16 and all, Hezly planned to take driving lessons this summer, hoping to get her license. Those plans, however, are on hold as she focuses on preparing for the Paris Olympics…you know, just normal teenager things 😉
4. Daddy’s Girl. Hezly shares a strong bond with her father Henry who has been her rock and hero throughout her gymnastics journey. “He always pushes me to be my best, but he’s also comforting when things get rough,” she says.
5. Despite her impressive gymnastics career, Hezly still enjoys typical teenage interests. She loves math, shopping, listening to music by Katy Nichole, reading “Mamba Mentality,” and watching her favorite movie, “Spy Kids 2.”
Image Source: Hezly Rivera on Twitter