Chicago 2016 and World Sport Chicago (WSC) announced Thursday that USA Gymnastics will host the 2009 American Cup gymnastics invitational in metropolitan Chicago February 21.
In officially welcoming the 2009 American Cup to the Chicago area, Mayor Richard M. Daley said, “by hosting these championships we have the opportunity to help develop the sport of gymnastics internationally, to celebrate the gymnasts accomplishments, to showcase their talents and give them the opportunity to experience the gymnasts accomplishments all the greatness that the Chicago metropolitan area has to offer”.
Patrick G. Ryan, chairman and CEO of Chicago 2016 said, “we are honoured that Chicago will welcome the gymnastics community to this prestigious international competition. We are thrilled that Chicago will have the opportunity to come out and see these top athletes from around the world compete”.
Legendary Olympic Gymnastics Coal Bela Karolyi was on hand in Chicago to make the announcement. He said, “the American Cup has always been an indicator of great Olympians, and I’d love for Chicago to host the Games on the 20th anniversary of the U.S. Women’s Gymnastics victory in 1996”.
Steve Penny, President of USA Gymnastics said, “the American Cup has a long tradition of showcasing and previewing the world’s top gymnasts, and it is a great way to show the gymnastics community that Chicago is the perfect city to host the 2016 Games. We are excited about starting our 2012 road to London in the Chicago area”.
