Athletes: Gymnastics, Mary Sanders

2004 U.S. Olympian Rhythmic Gymnast Mary Sanders began her gymnastics career at the age of three coached by her father in Toronto. Having dual citizenship within the US and Canada, Sanders competed competitively for years, and now tours sharing her talents in a variety of performances.  After competing for the United States, Circue Du Soleil scouted Sanders to perform in two of their touring shows, Corteo and Delirium where she continued her career as an acrobat, contortionist, trampolinist, rhythmic gymnast, aerialist and participated in lead character roles. For the past five years, Sanders has toured with Cirque Du Soleil while earning her certification in Public Relations at Ryerson University.

Mary is continuing to perform within the Special Events department with Cirque Du Soleil and is a creative collaborator and Spokesperson for the Reebok and Cirque du Soleil JUKARI program while continuing her studies with Athabasca University to achieve her bachelor's Degree in General Fine Art Studies. Mary is also pursuing a broadcasting career commentating gymnastics with NBC. Mary’s most recent accomplishments include being a 2009 USA Gymnastics Hall of Fame Inductee. Mary’s interests for the future include performing in theatre and on Broadway, artistic direction, choreography and continuing to explore her options within the broadcasting and PR industries.

Birthday: August 26th, 1985 
Hometown: Toronto, Canada
Residence: Montreal, Canada
Sport: Rhythmic Gymnastics

CAREER HIGHLIGHTS
• 2004 Olympian for U.S.A. – AA 15th place 
• 3-Time U.S.A. Rhythmic Gymnastics Champion
(2002-2004)
• 2004 Pacific Alliance Champion - 5 Gold medals 
• 2003 World Championships – AA 10thplace in finals,
Hoop and Clubs Finalist
• 2003 Pan-American Champion - 5 Gold medals 
• 2002 Pacific Alliance- AA 1st Place
• 2001 Four Continents Championships- AA 1st Place
• Canadian Rhythmic Champion 2001-2002
• 2-Time U.S Athlete of the year
• 2009 USA Gymnastics Hall of Fame Inductee