NCAA Gymnastics: Asher Hong Revisits Remarkable Saves Throughout His Career

In gymnastics, every second counts. Along with maintaining poise while performing the routines, the associated injury risks also loom on the back of the heads of every gymnast. A small mistiming can lead to grave consequences. However, for two-time NCAA Championships gold medalist Asher Hong, the trick lies in impromptu decision-making that can end up as the difference between a win and an injury.

Like every other gymnastics equipment, the bars can pose a significant challenge even for the most seasoned veterans of the sport. Similarly, the 19-year-old has had his fair share of tough moments as well. However, the Stanford Cardinal athlete has managed to come out unscathed from more scenarios than not, thanks to his quick thinking.

NCAA star always keeps a backup plan

In his latest Instagram story, Hong highlighted how he’s found the mojo to come out of a sticky situation more than once during his already illustrious career. Captioned “Best saves in men’s gymnastics“, the clip shows two short snippets where Asher faced an unexpected challenge while dishing out his best routines on the bars. The first clip can be tricky for a layman to notice, but people who are familiar with the sport can spot Hong’s wobbly moment as he looks to be out of control of the situation. However, the reigning NCAA vault champ chooses to go for a landing instead of continuing his session and not pushing his luck too much.

The second clip can be somewhat uncomfortable for many viewers, as Hong’s mistake can be spotted more prominently. While performing a move, Asher completely misses grabbing onto the bar with his palms and instead does another full swing while he holds on with his wrists. However, he pulls himself back together momentarily and gets his grip back immediately.

While such mistakes can make amateurs and fans flinch, such moments are part and parcel of the job for gymnasts. It’s this understanding that helps Hong stay on top of his game week after week while also incorporating new arms into his kitty. But misfortunes strike many.

Not all deeds go unpunished for gymnasts

Only last month, Hong took the gymnastics world by surprise as he tried his hands on a “new element” on the rings. The difficult move stunned even his teammate Khoi Young and fans couldn’t stop marvelling at the perfect execution. However, not all gymnasts can get away with their mistakes as the world witnessed last year.

Read more: Gymnastics News: Traumatized Asher Hong Shares Coaching Critique with a Unique Twist

All-around gymnastics sensation Brody Malone missed out on the U.S Gymnastics Championships because of a major leg injury incurred during a meet in Germany. On the other hand, famous artistic gymnast Zachary Clay’s injury almost ended his career, which he bounced back from as a mentor and helped the Canadian national team qualify for the upcoming Paris Olympics.

As Hong’s coaches keep a close eye on the team’s practice sessions, the Stanford athlete hopes to make it to Paris later this year and bring honor to the nation with his electrifying new routines.