Wieber Fever as Olympian heads to games

LANSING, Mich. (WOOD) - In less than three weeks, reigning World Champion Jordyn Wieber will take the international stage to represent the USA in the 2012 Summer Olympics.
 
She'll turn 17 just a few days before she heads overseas to compete for her first Olympic gold.
 
Fans, family members and community leaders packed the Lexington Hotel in Lansing for her official going away party on Tuesday night.

-- Photos: Jordyn Wieber, Model Olympian --

"I think it's awesome," said brother Ryan Wieber. "I think it's the coolest thing in the world. Some people ask, 'Are you jealous of her?' I say, 'No, not at all." It's the coolest thing.

Wieber's already won several high-profile competitions, but this will be her first Olympics. She's favored to do well.

"It's really special to feel the support and know there are so many people that stand behind her -- win, lose or draw. It feels absolutely tremendous," said Wieber's mother Rita Wieber.

At the party, autographed Wieber merchandise was sold quickly and fans wore home-made shirts in her honor.  

Tuesday night, "Wieber Fever" was alive and well.

Sports analysts say this is the best U.S. gymnast team since 1996.

"It's just going to be a fun ride to see it all go down and I hope the best for her," said Ryan.

"There's so much pressure," said Rita. "I'm really excited about the team. I know Jordyn feels like they have a great shot at winning the team gold, which has only been done once before this, so that would be a huge dream come true."

-- Photos: Through the years with Jordyn Wieber --