The Glasgow coach recruited for Paris 2024 Olympics as gymnastics judge

Meet the Glasgow gymnast coach who has been scooped up as a judge for the 2024 Paris Olympics.

With over 40 years of experience, gymnastics official Pauline Smith, has been selected to be part of the Women’s Artistic judging panel at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.

Pauline, from Cumbernauld, began to compete in gymnastics at a young age before becoming a judge for the first time at just 14-years-old. Now, coaching at City of Glasgow Gymnastics Club, the 60-year-old has reached the pinnacle of her judging career as she is set for her third Olympic Games.

READ MORE: Talented Glasgow singers hunted for new boyband formed by Simon Cowell

READ MORE: Hollywood star Barry Keoghan spotted dining in Glasgow west end restaurant

Speaking to Glasgow Live Pauline spoke of the anticipation ahead of the world's leading international event.

She said: "I think Paris is ready to put on an amazing show - it will be a fantastic atmosphere for the gymnasts. I know that when I walk into such incredible venues it's always a pinch me moment, you always want to do well, even as a judge".

Pauline admitted that some judges may feel as anxious as those competing, she added: "As a judge you feel just as nervous as the athletes I suppose - you want to go in and do the best job you can whether you're a coach, judge or a gymnast".

This will be the former Scotland gymnast's third time judging at an Olympic level having been selected at the London 2012 and Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games, as well as at numerous World and European Championships.

Speaking of the evolution of gymnastics in Scotland, Pauline believes it is only getting "bigger and bigger". She discussed how being a judge and coach go hand in hand and that she is able to prep her pupils as she herself knows what judges will be looking for.

"I always tell my pupils about the realness of gymnasts as well, that even professional athletes will be nervous and have their moments - we are all human. I can give them stories to inspire them and some tips and tricks here and there".

Pauline feels incredibly proud to be represent Glasgow, she added: "I have represented Scotland so many times as a judge, coach and gymnast - everybody knows Glasgow and wants us to do well. I'm always mindful that this could be someone else so I never take it for granted - I feel so grateful to have been selected and to be doing it for Glasgow".

Join Glasgow Live's WhatsApp community here and get the latest news sent straight to your messages.

Pauline is one of three British gymnastic judges selected for judging panels at the 2024 summer games - alongside her will be Nikki Hanley and Andrew Jones.

Talking with British Gymnastic about the pressure of judging at major competitions, Pauline added: “Judging is complex in gymnastics, so you must know the rules as well as possible because you’re reacting so quickly to what happens.

"As judges, we are also constantly assessed and based on evaluations of all major competitions you are a judge in, you are heavily scrutinised by a complex system called the Judge Evaluation Programme. However, we know how hard the gymnasts work to get to that level, and it’s only right that the judges put in the same level of dedication and commitment.”

Artistic gymnastics will take place from July 27 to August 5, with Pauline flying out towards the end of July just a couple of days before the gymnast's podium training.

Sign up to our daily Glasgow Live newsletter here to receive news and features direct to your inbox