For me, while discovering a new favorite at the Olympics is a time-honored tradition, it's even more fun to root for a returning champion. The 2012 Women's Gymnastics team, also known as the Fierce Five, were a beloved part of the last Summer Olympics, and some of its best members are back at it again. When are Gabby Douglas' Olympic events in Rio? You'll have plenty of opportunities to see the reigning All-Around gold medalist compete.
I should say that as far as individual events are concerned, we can't say for certain which events each member of Team USA will be competing in at the Rio Olympics — not just yet. They'll all be there for the Team Final, unless one of the alternates needs to step up, but not everyone is required to compete in All-Around or all of the individual events. That decision is made by the teams and their coaches. There is also a qualification round that will determine who goes to the finals for each event. It's all part of the Olympic journey.
So, if you're tuning into Gymnastics just to see Gabby, which is totally understandable, here's when each of the events are being broadcast on NBC and how likely it is that Douglas will be there.
Women's Team Final
Tuesday, August 9, 3:00 p.m. EST
As a member of Team USA, she'll definitely be competing here. I always think it's weird that Team is first, but I guess that's best for individual competitive spirits.
Women's All-Around Final
Thursday, August 11, 3:00 p.m. EST
This is the other guaranteed event for Douglas. She's gotta defend her title!
Vault
Sunday, August 14, 1:00 p.m. EST
In 2012, nobody from the USA dared go up against McKayla Maroney. This year, the team doesn't have any vault specialists. Douglas may want to give it a try, though her team members Simone Biles and Aly Raisman are also excellent in this event.
Uneven Bars
Sunday, August 14, 1:00 p.m. EST
Uneven Bars is easily her strongest event, and she's the best on the team in that event. Count on it! Since this and vault are on the same day, you might as well tune in for the whole block of gymnastics coverage.
Balance Beam
Monday, August 15, 1:00 p.m. EST
Most of us remember Gabby's iconic beam performance from 2012. However, in the individual event, she placed seventh, while Aly Raisman took home the bronze. Since both girls are returning to Rio, I would assume that a re-match is in order.
Floor
Tuesday, August 16, 1:00 p.m. EST
My personal favorite, because it's basically athletic dancing. Douglas did not compete in this event in 2012, and the team has several competitors who are excellent at floor routines. Still, since it's the last event of the games, I wouldn't be surprised if she showed up. Even if she isn't competing in the final event, she'll likely be there cheering on Team USA!
