Whiz Kid: Gymnast Caroline Lichtman

We are asking for your nominations for Whiz Kid of the week, so suggest a special kid, teen, or youth group to be spotlighted. Please submit suggestions below. Read more about nominations .

This week’s Whiz Kid takes flexibility to a whole new level! Caroline Lichtman, a second grader at , is an award-winning gymnast whose dedication comes in strides and bounds; Caroline spends nearly 26 hours per week practicing. 

Despite all the time she devotes to her conditioning, she never seems to get enough and remains passionate. Her parents are Peter Lichtman (Judge of L.A. Superior Court, retired) and Liz Lichtman (homemaker) and she also has an older sister, Catherine, that is 10 years old and a 5th grader at Valentine School. The family also has two desert tortoises named Mercedes and Benz.

Caroline want to be an Olympic gymnast and gold medalist for the United States. She said when her Olympics dream has been fulfill, she will relax and do nothing for a while, then would like to study to become a veterinarian.

Whiz Kid’s Name:                  Caroline Lichtman

Whiz Kid’s Age:                     8 years old (Nov. 13th birthday)

Whiz Kid's School:                Valentine Elementary (second grade)

Whiz Kid’s Accomplishment:

Caroline is an award-winning gymnast with multiple honors.

1. Silver Medalist AA (All Around) 2011 State Championships; Level 4
2. First Place – 2011 State Championships; Level 4 Bars Event
3. First Place – 2011 Southern California East Sectionals; Level 4 Floor Event

Whiz Kid’s Key to Awesomeness:

Gymnastics, like any competitive sport, requires not only an enormous time commitment (anywhere from 12 hours to even 30 hours per week) but also a passion for the sport that picks up the aspiring gymnast when he or she falls and pushes him or her to continue to excel despite setbacks. Caroline Lichtman is such an individual. Not only does she practice nearly 26 hours per week, but she also pushes herself to learn new skills and overcome the challenges that come with self-improvement.

Dedication aside, talent also represents an important component and is something that Caroline has in spades. Her coach has commented on her ability to adjust to the different challenges her routines present her and that her natural talent and perseverance make her shine as an up and coming gymnast.  Caroline’s dedication, commitment, and love for her athletic performance are truly what make not just an amazing gymnast, but an amazing young individual.

Caroline recently finished the 2011 gymnastic meet season at the State Championship level earning a rank of Level 4 State Champion on the bars with Silver Medal in All Around. When not training in gymnastics, Caroline loves spending down time with her family and constantly reminds herself that she is only where she is because of their love and support.

Bonus Questions:

What is your favorite food?: Hot dogs, Pizza & Fried Rice

What is the last book you read for pleasure?: First Grader Toothless Wonder by June B

If you had the power to change one thing to make the world a better place, would what that be?: “I would like to see less homelessness.”