USA Gymnastics: Allow Bailee Iorg compete in gymnastics

The Issue

Bailee Iorg was born with a lower leg difference and needs to use a prosthetic leg. That should not prevent her from being able to compete in gymnastics!

Bailee was featured in a news story on WBIR-TV in Knoxville, Tennessee on May 15, 2013. Her story was reshared at other television stations across the country. In the news piece, Bailee's gymnastics coach explains USA Gymnastics does not have rules for or against the use of prosthetics in competition. For now, the organization is reviewing Bailee's case to decide if she can compete.

This petition was created to help the growing number of people who know Bailee deserves to compete!

In Bailee's words, "Instead of being lazy and sitting on the couch like most people would do and tell their mom and dad, 'Well I can't do it because of my fake leg' and then their moms and dads go, 'Awww yeah, you can't do it.' Instead saying, 'Mom and dad, I want to do this, I want to do that.'"

Bailee wants to compete! Let's rally for her and help future kids know they can too!

avatar of the starter
Jen ReevesPetition StarterI'm a disability advocate who is always looking for ways to celebrate kids who were born just right!
Confirmed victory
This petition made change with 574 supporters!

The Issue

Bailee Iorg was born with a lower leg difference and needs to use a prosthetic leg. That should not prevent her from being able to compete in gymnastics!

Bailee was featured in a news story on WBIR-TV in Knoxville, Tennessee on May 15, 2013. Her story was reshared at other television stations across the country. In the news piece, Bailee's gymnastics coach explains USA Gymnastics does not have rules for or against the use of prosthetics in competition. For now, the organization is reviewing Bailee's case to decide if she can compete.

This petition was created to help the growing number of people who know Bailee deserves to compete!

In Bailee's words, "Instead of being lazy and sitting on the couch like most people would do and tell their mom and dad, 'Well I can't do it because of my fake leg' and then their moms and dads go, 'Awww yeah, you can't do it.' Instead saying, 'Mom and dad, I want to do this, I want to do that.'"

Bailee wants to compete! Let's rally for her and help future kids know they can too!

avatar of the starter
Jen ReevesPetition StarterI'm a disability advocate who is always looking for ways to celebrate kids who were born just right!

The Decision Makers

Susan Jacobson
Susan Jacobson
USA Gymnastics
Responded
USA Gymnastics applauds Bailee Iorg for her determination, drive and “can do” attitude, not only regarding gymnastics but also life in general. USA Gymnastics does not have a policy that precludes an athlete with a prosthetic device from competing; however we plan to monitor and address any areas of concern. We trust that Bailee and her coaches will monitor her skill level and capability to determine her competitive readiness and wish Bailee the best of luck as she pursues her athletic dreams.

Petition Updates