GT project puts second grader on path to gymnastics dream

GT project puts second grader on path to gymnastics dream
Posted on 05/30/2019
GT project puts second grader on path to gymnastics dream

By: Reesha Brown
Pasadena ISD Communications


Red Bluff second grader Yaritza Castillo’s dreams of becoming a gymnast are just within reach.

After presenting a stimulating presentation about Olympic medalist Laurie Hernandez at the district GT Showcase, a Pasadena ISD board member was so moved by her presentation that they contacted Nik and Amy Felder, owners of Legacy Gymnastics Academy. The Felder’s were equally moved by the story and wanted to reward Castillo with free gymnastics classes for the summer.

Legacy Gymnastics representatives presented a gift certificate for the summer classes to Castillo during an end of year awards ceremony in the cafeteria, where she had the opportunity to share the special moment with the entire second grade.

“Her mom along with everyone else in the audience were moved to tears at the surprise,” said Tammie Hinton, Red Bluff principal. I saw her at the end of the day and she said, ‘I’m so excited. So, I really get to go to gymnastics?’ I said, ‘Yes, you really do.’ We are so happy for her.”

Castillo’s project features biographical information about the American artistic gymnast’s career, from qualifying for the National Championship in St. Louis to becoming an Olympic Medalist, to becoming the youngest winner on “Dancing with the Stars,” Season 23.

Castillo compares Hernandez’ experiences to her own, bridging the second grader’s path to success with that of the gymnast’s.

“I was inspired by her because I knew that she would never give up and that she never let any obstacles stop her,” Castillo said. “I know if I do that the same way, no obstacle will stop me from [achieving] my dream because she didn’t let those obstacles get in front of her.”

“I want to thank Legacy Gymnastics for helping me out with my dreams,” Castillo said.