GODFREY - Gymnasts from Mid Illinois Gymnastics in Godfrey reached the podium at the Alliance Energy Center in Madison, Wis., as the club remained competitive at nationals despite bringing fewer competitors this year.
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Joseph Elliott led the results by winning his third consecutive national title, finishing first in the advanced boys ages 9-10 division with a score of 50.7. In the novice girls 12-year-old category, Ellie McKenney placed first in her flight and first overall in her age division, winning her second national championship.
The 11-year-old girls team also reached the finals, with two athletes finishing on the podium. Hailey Ryrie-Turkovic placed sixth with a score of 57.6, and Stella Moehn finished seventh with a score of 57.3.
Despite an injury, Averee Blevins competed and missed the finals, finishing seventh in her flight. In the 11-year-old novice division, Mackayla Cardeli placed fourth in her flight and 12th overall in the meet.
Elliott won last year in the sub-advanced category in Rapid City, S.D. McKenney, who won the sub-novice category last year, maintained a perfect record this year by winning every meet, including the state championship meet.
Kristin Bower of Mid Illinois Gymnastics said the athletes’ success reflected long-term commitment and development.
“These athletes are very dedicated to their sport and work all year for this meet,” Bower said. “They all moved up in their levels. Joe has won nationals three years in a row. Ellie has won one and has never lost a meet. All of these skills take years to master. The season has come to an end this year. But we are already back in the gym working for next year’s season. These are very exciting times for Joe. He is now recognized as an elite gymnast.”
Bower said all of the athletes are new to their levels this year and show strong potential for future competitions.
