Montgomery County honors hometown Olympian Dominque Dawes with statue

MONTGOMERY COUNTY, Md. ( DC News Now ) – The statue honoring four-time Olympic medalist, Dominique Dawes, was unveiled inside the Silver Spring Recreation and Aquatic Center.

Dawes attributes a lot of her career success to the time she spent honing her craft in Montgomery County.

“I love the fact that this statue will inspire the next generation,” Dawes said. “Young boys and girls color, they’ll walk by and they’ll learn about my journey. The highs and lows and realize that I never gave up, I persevered and that anything is possible. I want them to realize that this is possible for them as well.”

Friends, family and fans of all ages gathered to see the Gaithersburg High School graduate receive the prestigious honor.

“She’s a trailblazer,” Brandi Simms said. “First African American gymnast to win an Olympic medal. She’s broken barriers and I think it’s important for the future. A lot of young kids were here, and I think it’s important for them to see what can be done when you put your mind to it.”

Community members said they felt a rush of emotions immediately after the sculpture was unveiled.

“The statue is amazing,” Yolanda Moore said. “The gentleman did awesome work. He got the details on point.”

Dawes hopes those who view the statue take away one important message.

“Don’t give up,” she said. “You never know what’s possible. There were many times where I wanted to quit the sport of gymnastics, or I had a great deal of insecurities or fears or I never thought I was enough, and if I would’ve quit, I would’ve never gotten to where I am today.”

Dawes still lives in Montgomery County with her family, and she owns a gymnastics academy in Rockville.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to DC News Now | Washington, DC.