Born on the 6th of May in 1980, Kasumi Laura Takahashi began her career in rhythmic gymnastics at the age of eight when she made the switch from artistic gymnastics. Although she was born in Japan and based in Los Angeles, Takahashi chose to represent Australia as it was where her mother was born and where she feels most at home. She was coached by Olga Morozova at the California Academy of Rhythmic Gymnastics, and surprised the world when she swept all five gold medals at the 1994 Commonwealth Games at the age of 14. About her work ethic and performance, Takahashi says:
"I work as much as I can...I work until I almost collapse...I'm shy to talk, but I'm not shy to perform...that's a good thing."
Known for her technically competent and original presentations, Takahashi was noticeably struggling with the physical transition after a teenage growth spurt. Nevertheless, she was touted as Australia's best hope at the Olympics despite performing below expectations at the world championships in 1995. Based on her winning performance at the 1995 Four-Continents Championships, she earned a place to compete at the 1996 Atlanta Olympics through a wild card entry. However, she had to pull out three days before the competition due to stress fractures in her back. That back injury proved to be detrimental to her career as she did not compete since then, and is now all but retired.
Classic Routines: The routine that best exemplified her graceful, yet innovative work is, without doubt, her clubs exercise from the 1994 Commonwealth Games. Jungle drum-like music accompanied this difficult routine, complemented by its unusual choreography.
Unusual Performances: Sharing the stage with several well-known artistes, Takahashi performed a solo hoop routine at the 1995 Academy Awards in a musical dramatisation of 'The Circle of Life' from Disney's animated movie"The Lion King".
Trim 'n' Terrific: Takahashi was also featured in promotional material for Trim 'n' Terrific milk. She was featured on the milk carton itself as well as in a TV commercial, where the milk carton she drinks from turns into a ball, a hoop and a ribbon.
