Local Sports

MGA athletes earn top finishes at Peace Love Meet

Mountain Gymnastics Academy (MGA) athletes delivered a strong performance at the Peace, Love, Gymniks Invitational Meet, held February 14-15 in Parkersburg, West Virginia, earning multiple podium finishes and standout all-around performances across all Xcel levels. Competing against teams from throughout the region, MGA gymnasts demonstrated steady execution and competitive consistency while continuing their preparation for the WV State Meet.

The Xcel Bronze team included Ava Boyer of Coalton who recorded a strong routine on bars, tying for second place, and Claire Hunt of Elkins who also earned a top-three finish, tying for second on bars. Brielle Hayes of Elkins placed third on floor while teammate Paisley Tenney of Buckhannon earned a third-place floor.

MGA's Xcel Silver gymnasts also earned key top-three placements. Ella Shifflett of Harman delivered one of the meet's strongest individual performances, finishing third all-around with a 36.550 while capturing second place on both bars and beam. Lilly Bosely of Belington added a third-place vault finish.

In Xcel Gold competition, . Ava Graham of Coalton led the team with an event victory on bars and also placed second on vault. Lizzy Dale of Elkins scored a third-place all-around finish, and added a third-place finish on bars. Kaylee Long of Elkins contributed a third-place finish on beam.

The Xcel Platinum athletes were led by Kaelyn Kirkpatrick of Elkins, who placed third on both vault and floor. Liz Jones of Elkins, Claire Kniffen of Beverly and Emersyn Biller of Elkins all placed second on vault in their respective divisions.

In the Xcel Sapphire division, Lily Hayes of Elkins carded an outstanding second-place all-around finish. Hayes placed second on floor and third on both vault and beam, showing balanced strength across all four events.

Coach Tori Chambers praised the athletes' continued progress. "We saw a lot of gymnasts step up and perform with confidence. Their consistency across events is improving, and it shows in their all-around results."

Coach Marcy Gilbert emphasized the team's focus on steady development. "This meet was an important opportunity for our girls to refine their routines and build confidence. They stayed composed, executed their skills well, and represented MGA with enthusiasm and determination."