Sunday, March 22, 2009

2nd Sectional:Field Toughens

At the 2nd Sectional for the optional teams, the competition is clearing getting tougher in this run-up to States. Of course, the good news which shouldn't be overlooked, is that everyone on the Level 7 and 8 teams qualified for States. Just how things might look for States is a topic for our resident forecaster, Jim Nast. His report will come later. For now, here are the results from the second session of this 2nd Sectional.

Level 7 Action
It was ribbons-for-everyone, but none of them came easy. There were many talented gymnasts on hand, who were trying their hardest in this rehearsal for States. In the 8-11 age group, Jackie and Nicole made their marks. Nicole took 5th on Bars, but dominated the Beam with a stunning 9.525 routine to claim the blue ribbon. Jackie took the white 3rd place ribbon with a 9.00. On Floor, it was Jackie's turn to shine. Her 9.375 took 4th. (This gives you an idea of how tough the competition was.) In the 12 yr old group, Mikayla was a regular member of the top three, taking the 3rd place ribbons on Bars, Beam, Floor and All Around. In the 13-14 age group, it was Ali's turn to dominate. She took 2nd on Vault, 3rd on Bars and the blue ribbons on Beam, Floor and the All Around. In the 15+ age group, they only went out one place. If they had done two places, it would have been Amanda and Jamie hogging the top of the podium. Both were hot stuff on Vault and Floor, especially. They did take 1st and 2nd in the All Around.

Level 8 Action
It was great to have Jess back with the team after her prolonged recovery. She was far from rusty. In fact, Jess led the 3-girl team on Vault. LaNaya took the red 2nd place ribbon on Bars (which was being judged rather strictly at this meet). Beam was less kind to all three of our 8s. On Floor, however, they were all at their best. Melinda scored her best of the meet on Floor. Jess took the 4th place ribbon with a 9.2. LaNaya took the blue with a 9.4.

With just two weeks until States, all the 7s and 8s will be polishing up their routines. From this Sectional, they could see that they'll need to be at their best. States is going to require their best. Go get 'em girls!

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