Mary-Kate Barwise knew by her results at the provincial gymnastics championships two weeks ago she made the right decision this season to climb the competitive ladder.
From Level 1 to Level 2, just about every move she now makes on the balance beam, uneven bars, floor and vault is more difficult, but she's getting better with age. As she proved again over the weekend at the Prince George Invitational Gymnastics meet, she's been up for the challenge.
The 11-year-old Prince George Gymnastics Club (PGGC) member climbed to the head of the class in the two-day meet, winning the overall Level 2 tyro class with 47.65 points ahead of five others gymnasts.
"My floor routine, by far, was my best event, because I got a higher score (12.75) than I've ever gotten," said Barwise, who earned first-place marks in floor, bars and beam and was fourth in the vault.
"The skills are harder in Level 2. Beam is the only thing I get nervous for because with the new skills it's hard not to wobble. I have to connect a handstand back walkover, and that's hard."
Kayla Russman (46.75) and Rhianna Palfy (46.10) joined their clubmate Barwise on the medal podium.
Barwise showed she's a quick study at the B.C. meet in Langley, her first provincial championship, where she placed ninth on the beam and 20th overall, out of 48 gymnasts.
"I didn't expect myself to place (in the top-10), I was just thinking it would be a fun experience," said Barwise.
Barwise, a Grade 5 student at Hart Highlands school, also enjoys competing in the track and field. Her gymnastics training gives her the strength and agility to excel in other sports at school.
"Mary-Kate is a calm, easy-going kid and she competes the way she trains, which is a good thing because she doesn't really get nervous," said PGGC coach Carol Garcia. "She's a bit of a natural athlete and she learns stuff pretty easily."
