As part of the Sports Photography Workshop in Colorado Springs I was very privileged to have access to athletes at the USA Olympic Training Centre.  One of the athletes that I was fortunate enough to meet and work briefly with was Andrew Elkind, member of the U.S. Men’s Senior National Team.

Not being the type of person to stay quiet, Andrew very patiently answered my questions while he worked it for the camera.

Andrew has been training in gymnastics since the age of 6.  Now 25, he has resided full-time at the Olympic Training Centre in Colorado Springs for the past four years.  Having witnessed him in training for a couple of hours prior to photographing him, you can see that his dedication to being one of the U.S’ elite gymnasts is nothing short of admirable.  This could have something to do with the gruelling 6-day a week training that he participates in!

Missing out on competing at Beijing due to a torn bicep seems to have only made Andrew more focussed on London.  He is realistic that it may be his last chance to compete at Olympic level as male gymnasts tend to retire at around the age of 30.  After meeting him, I wouldn’t be at all surprised if he took the age limitations on.

Andrew, I wish you all the best for your training and at competition in London.  Thank you for taking some time out to work with me.

Assisted on shoot by David Emm and Ron Hiner.