Tabitha Yim (USA) – November 2^nd 1985

Tabitha was a very special gymnast who enjoyed every second of her floor exercise and always sought a connection to the audience. She was a true performer whose career was cut short because of injuries.

Yim had already gained a reputation for her style and form on beam and floor when she emerged as a US senior. Then, on her debut year as a senior Tabitha finished second in the all-around at the 2001 US Nationals, which secured her a place on the 2001 USA World team. There, the US team achieved a third place finish in Ghent and Individually Tabitha placed 7^th in the all-around and 6^th in the floor final.

After Worlds, however, Tabitha began battling with injuries to the point that prior to the 2002 Nationals she had only been in full training for a few weeks after missing most of the year. Despite this she finished second in the all-around again and won the beam title. Shortly after Tabitha was injured again and out for the rest of 2002 and all of 2003.

Yim managed a comeback in 2004 in an attempt to make the Olympic Team and during the Olympic Trials she finished 4^th making her a strong candidate for the team. Unfortunately once again, Tabitha was injured at a training camp and was forced to withdraw from the selection process.

After her recovery Tabitha went on to compete NCAA for Stanford University, where she would build on her reputation for unique and beautiful floor work.  She also finished her third season there as one of the most decorated Stanford gymnastics in history.  Known as an enthusiastic and warm leader, she returned to Stanford as an assistant coach.

She is also a certified judge.

Aside from gymnastics Tabitha plays the organ and is an accomplished figure skater.

Watch her on floor, where she truly shone.

Tabitha Yim – 2001 US Nationals – Floor

Article: Isabel Zamora
Editor: Maree Jones

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