Rick Patrick
rick@greenepublishing.com
According to Blake Grass' mother, Christy, he was born to be a gymnast. "He was climbing and tumbling before he could even walk," said Christy. Considering that early inclination, it was no surprise when the 14-year old began seriously training for competitive gymnastics five years ago.
Young Blake began gymnastics training in Perry, Fla. with Taylor Gymnastics. When that program ceased training for boys, Blake was forced to look elsewhere for lessons. Blake began work at Gym Force Gymnastics, in Tallahassee, where he continues to train. The gym has had to close temporarily due to COVID-19, but before the gym closed, Blake was making the trip to Tallahassee six days out of the week. That work and dedication paid off for Blake in March of this year, when he won the top slot in the Junior Development (JD) level to claim the Level JD Men's State Championship of Florida. This was Blake's second state title.
Due to the virus, Blake's competition season has been put on hold. He still trains at home on a consistent basis with stretching and conditioning exercises in order to keep his body and skills in top shape. He is undoubtedly looking forward to resuming his training regimen in the gym. As his mom states, "It's the highlight of his life."
Blake has been home schooled, but will be entering the ninth grade at James Madison Preparatory High School in the fall. He is the son of Ben and Christy Grass.