Flying High

P

LARYN LATHAM

Perseverance & training has propelled local gymnast, Laryn Latham, to strive for excellence.

story by MATT ROBINSON-AQUIRRE / photography by LARAMIE’S PHOTOGRAPHY - TRISTAN THRIFT

It takes a high level of willpower and a lifetime of training to be called an elite gymnast. The level of determination and discipline necessary to push one's body beyond the limits of what one would think physically possible by the average person is something many do not possess. But an innate talent and self-determination alone do not a champion make. Training by a knowledgeable coach and support from loved ones is also key to being a successful athlete. Laryn Latham, the daughter of Andy and Rebecca Latham, received just that from her parents and her coaches and trainers at Southeastern Elite Gymnastics & Cheerleading in Waycross. Laryn has been training at Southeastern Elite since she was three years old.

In 2020, at the Made In The USA Gymnastics Invitational, Laryn was ranked in the top 20 nationally in her level and division. Laryn has performed admirably in three more meets since then and continues to strive for excellence in her athletic endeavors.

“My gym, Southeastern Elite, has always felt like a home to me. I have been through all of my training there. When I started gymnastics, I worked with Tanya Peavey and Deana Bokor. They taught me how to work hard and also have fun also. As I advanced in training, I now work with Victoria Johnson and William Hutto. They also encourage me in so many ways, both at the gym and beyond,” Laryn said. The Olympic Gold Medalist Simone Biles has also been a source of inspiration to Laryn. "I

admire Simone Biles because she has so many skills named after her, and she keeps going and striving and never gives up. She doesn’t ever let anyone get in her way of achieving her dreams.” And it doesn’t sound like Laryn Latham is about to let anyone or anything get in the way of her dreams either. Laryn enjoys what she does and seems to thrive with the travel and competition. “What I like most about competing is the places we get to go. I love to travel, especially with my friends, family, and coaches. I also love making new friends from all over. And, I enjoy showing off my routine.” Laryn plans to attend college and compete at that level and beyond. There is little doubt with the perseverance she has shown that Laryn will find herself always flying high. "If you aren't committed to training, conditioning, and practice, you aren't committed to being your best." - SIMONE BILES, OLYMPIC GOLD MEDALIST