Trampolist Dylan Schmidt has been named for his third Olympics. Photo: PHOTOSPORT
Dylan Schmidt, the first Kiwi to win an Olympic medal in gymnastics, hopes to carry his current good form into the Paris Olympics.
The 2022 trampoline world champion won bronze in Tokyo in 2021 and will be looking to better that in Paris.
Maddie Davidson, who was also named in the team today, was the first woman to compete in the trampoline in New Zealand at the Tokyo Olympics, finishing in 10th place.
"It's crazy that it's my third Olympics, it's flown by," Schmidt said.
"To go to my third Games and have the chance to do something special is pretty amazing and I really love being part of the wider New Zealand team."
Schmidt proudly displays his bronze medal at the Tokyo Olympics. Photo: Steve McArthur/Photosport Ltd 2021
Schmidt said he felt he was in good form, with a recent fourth at the recent World Cup in Cottbus, Germany.
"Performing at my peak should get me right up top in Paris.
"If I can do that it puts me in the mix for the podium and even the top spot. Ultimately, I'm there to be happy with my performance and if I'm happy I'll be in the mix. I really just want to enjoy it have fun and put out a performance I'm proud of."
Schmidt - who was raised in Te Anau in Southland but is now based in Auckland - said his world championship title two years ago was special.
"It's a great one to look back on but right now I'm focused on the job ahead and doing everything I can to prepare for Paris."
Maddie Davidson has been selected to compete at her second Olympic Games. Photo: Andrew Cornaga / www.photosport.nz
Christchurch-based Davidson, 25, said she was thrilled to be going to her second Olympics.
"It's pretty special, the first time was a real whirlwind so to do it a second time is great.
"I'd love to make the final in Paris, things are going really well in training so we're definitely heading in the right direction."
The trampoline competition at Paris will be held on 2 August.
