Becca’s Place gymnast, Central Hardin junior earns Kentucky Gymnast of the Year honors
May 1, 2025
Elizabethtown, KY — In the wake of the powerful EF-4 tornado that struck Somerset, Kentucky in early May—leaving widespread devastation across the region—AB Training Facility was among the many businesses destroyed, losing its entire building and equipment. In an inspiring demonstration of compassion and unity, Becca’s Place Gymnastics spearheaded a statewide donation drive, rallying gymnastics facilities from across Kentucky to replace thousands of dollars in training equipment lost in the disaster.
On May 30, AB Training Facility secured a new temporary location—and within 24 hours, donations began arriving. Gymnastics equipment and supplies filled trucks, including balance beams, AirTrack mats, vault tables, preschool training equipment, uneven bars, leotards, spotting blocks, cleaning supplies, wedge mats, and more.
Kentucky gym owners and staff personally drove across the state—spanning more than 500 miles collectively—to ensure that AB’s athletes could return to the sport they love in a safe and supportive space.
“I never knew that you could cry tears of sadness but smile with so much happiness at the same time,” said Amber Bryant, owner of AB Training Facility. “We all compete against one another every weekend, but in a moment of need, these all showed up not as competitors—but as family. Their athletes, their parents, the gym owners—they all pulled through. I’ve never felt so much love and compassion in my life.”
Bryant added, “Three very special gym owners loaded trucks and traveled the state, collecting items from gym after gym. When they arrived, their smiles and hugs were exactly what was needed. They weren’t just delivering equipment—they were helping our gym become a home again. I wish I had the words to express my gratitude. This is what family feels like.”
The grassroots effort was organized by Becca’s Place Gymnastics in Elizabethtown, which immediately began coordinating with other gym owners as soon as they learned about the destruction.
“This sport builds more than strong athletes—it builds strong communities,” said Jennifer Ryan, co-owner of Becca’s Place Gymnastics. “When Amber lost her facility, we knew we had to step in. It was incredible to see how quickly our Kentucky gymnastics family came together to support the kids and coaches in Somerset. This wasn’t just a donation—it was a statewide embrace.”
Participating gymnastics facilities included:
- ACE Gymnastics
- Agility Gymnastics & Fitness Academy
- Becca’s Place Gymnastics
- Champion Gymnastics
- Excel
- Kentucky Gymnastics Academy
- Legacy All Sports
- River City Turners Gymnastics
- Top Flight Gymnastics
Together, they turned tragedy into hope—ensuring that the children of Somerset have a safe place to train, grow, and heal through movement and mentorship.
For those still looking to help AB Training Facility rebuild, donations can be made through their official GoFundMe page at https://gofund.me/d08258b7.
