June 14 - HP Pavilion, home of the NHL side San Jose Sharks, will host the United States gymnastics trials for the London 2012 Olympics, it was announced today.



USA Gymnastics and the United States Olympic Committee (USOC) announced that the trials for the men's and women's artistic gymnastics will be held between June 28 and July 1, 2012. 

"San Jose has presented a fantastic plan for hosting the 2012 Olympic Trials," said Steve Penny, the President of USA Gymnastics.

The Californian city has staged several major gymnastics events, including the 2004 Olympic trials for rhythmic gymnastics and trampoline.

"Over the years, the Bay Area and San Jose in particular have been outstanding hosts to USA Gymnastics," said Penny.

"We are confident this will be one of the best Olympic Trials ever conducted for any sport.

"All of the partners connected to this effort are committed to producing a memorable event and one that showcases our country’s top athletes at the highest level."

Scott Blackmun, the chief executive of the USOC, claimed that it was a reward for San Jose's support in previous years.

"San Jose has been a terrific partner for the US Olympic Movement over the years," he said.

"They have continually supported the many activities of the US Olympic Committee and our Olympic Teams, and they are most deserving of the privilege to host the Olympic Trials for gymnastics."

San Jose follows Anaheim and Philadelphia which hosted the 2004 and 2008 Olympic trials respectively.

Chuck Reed, the Mayor of San Jose, promised that the whole city would throw its support behind the event after finding out its bid, headed by the San Jose Sports Authority and HP Pavilion, and which included commitments from the City of San Jose, San Jose Hotels and the San Jose Convention and Visitor’s Bureau, had been successful.

"This is an amazing honour for the citizens of San Jose," said Reed.

"We are grateful for the trust USA Gymnastics has placed in our city for such a prestigious event.

"The Olympic Trials for gymnastics is among the crown jewels of events to host, and the celebration of selecting our Olympic team will be one that is embraced by the entire community."