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How does it feel to know you are heading to your first Olympic Games in little more than a month?
I’m really excited and feel very fortunate to have the opportunity to represent my country at the Olympic Games. I feel this is going to be one of the best teams the US has ever put together and am so happy I can be a part of it.

How did you feel when your name was announced as part of the Olympic team?
I couldn’t believe it actually, and I was so overwhelmed all of a sudden with great joy. It still hasn’t all sunk in yet just because it has been such an incredible journey for me.

Is there anything in particular you want to gain from this experience?
I want to have the best time of my life there with my teammates. You work all your life to be an Olympian so there is no reason not to have the greatest time of your life.

What are you looking forward to most in Athens?
Just performing with my team representing the US and doing the best possible job we can. It is going to be an intense competition but every single one of us will be ready for the challenge.

Do you feel a sense of relief knowing that you are on the team? How will this affect your attitude toward training and healing your back over the next few weeks?
Yes, I do feel relieved because my whole career has been a long battle. Now that I am on the team I can just focus on perfecting my routines and healing my back. I will train hard at the camp and be there supporting the seven guys that are going to battle it out for those last 2 spots.