The cheerleading world has another reason to celebrate as one of its own, Jasmine Moore, continues to soar beyond the mat. The former Cheerleading World Champion with Spirit of Texas A-Team has made history, becoming the first U.S. woman to qualify for the Olympics in both the long jump and triple jump. Not only did she qualify, but she also brought home bronze medals in both events at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.
At just 23 years old, Moore’s journey from the cheerleading stage to the Olympic track is nothing short of remarkable. Once a young girl with dreams of being a Dallas Cowboys cheerleader, Moore traded in her pom-poms for track spikes, a decision that has certainly paid off. With a background in cheerleading, where precision, power, and grace are paramount, Moore found a natural transition into the explosive world of track and field, particularly the triple jump and long jump.
Krista Godbee, Jasmine Moore’s former cheer coach, shared her pride in Jasmine’s journey:
“After Jasmine won Worlds in 2016 and decided to retire from cheer to focus on track, I asked her, ‘Are you as good at track as you are at cheer?!’ She was an amazing cheerleader—toe fulls, whip doubles, all the things! And she confidently told me, ‘Yes, I’m even better!’ I said, ‘Well, I fully support your decision, but you better make it to the Olympics! And you better still come see me!’ She promised she would, and just look at her now! I couldn’t be prouder. Love you sooo much, Jas. I’m forever a fan!”
Her performance in Paris solidified her place in history. Moore’s long jump bronze came with a 6.96-meter leap, achieved on her very first attempt. This leap was enough to keep her in medal contention throughout the event, even as the competition heated up. Fellow American Tara Davis-Woodhall took gold with a 7.10-meter jump, while German competitor Malaika Mihambo claimed silver with a 6.98-meter jump, edging Moore out of the silver medal position.
But Moore’s achievements in Paris go beyond just her performance. She made history by becoming the first U.S. woman to ever medal in both the triple jump and long jump at the same Olympics. This incredible feat showcases not only her versatility as an athlete but also her relentless drive to push boundaries, a trait that was honed during her years on the cheer mat.
Despite the high stakes and pressure, Moore’s humility shines through. She admitted she wasn’t even aware she was making history—her focus was simply on qualifying and performing her best. Reflecting on her dual disciplines, Moore expressed a special fondness for the triple jump, calling it her “baby,” yet acknowledged the thrill of the long jump, where she feels like she’s “flying.”
Moore’s story is one of inspiration, not just for aspiring track and field athletes but also for cheerleaders who dream of making an impact beyond the sport. Her success underscores the valuable skills and mindset cultivated in cheerleading—discipline, resilience, and the ability to perform under pressure—all of which have propelled her to Olympic glory.
As Moore’s family, with deep roots in track and field, cheers her on from the stands, the cheerleading community beams with pride. Jasmine Moore’s journey from the stunts and pyramids of the Spirit of Texas A-Team to the world’s biggest athletic stage is a testament to what can be achieved when passion meets perseverance.
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