USA Gymnastics has agreed to buy the Karolyi Ranch gymnastics facilities in Huntsville, Texas, from longtime coaches Bela and Martha Karolyi. The NGB has called the facility home since '15 and signed a long-term lease about 10 years ago that paved the way for the sale, USA Gymnastics CEO Steve Penny said. “They felt all along they wanted to be a USA Gymnastics property, and it makes sense for us too,” he said. “There are economies of scale if you’re going to take something over and manage and operate it, to own it too." The transaction includes 36 acres of land and facilities. The Karolyis will still own more than 2,000 acres of the surrounding land. The ranch has hosted all elite training by the U.S. women’s national team since '01. Marta Karoyli is leaving her role as national team coordinator after Rio. “I am incredibly proud of the system that we have created and the success of our women’s program for the past 15 years,” said Martha Karolyi in a statement. “It is the right time for Bela and me to enjoy the other things in life while still remaining connected to USA Gymnastics through the ongoing activities at the ranch.” Terms were not disclosed.
