The Britton-Hecla gymnastics squad topped a pair of Class AA schools at the Huron Invitational on Thursday and also saw the return of senior standout Abby Lee for the first time this season after suffering a volleyball injury.
Watertown took the team title with 142.700 points while the Lady Braves placed second at 132.250, ahead of both Aberdeen and Huron.
This week Coach Angela Grupe’s squad hosts Sisseton on Thursday beginning at 5:30 p.m. and travels to Madison Saturday.
“Abby Lee started light practice last week and was able to complete a vault and a partial bar routine at Huron,” said Grupe. “It was exciting to have her back on the floor with us. We are not sure the level of return we are looking at but will be happy to have her competing again.”
Lee marked her return with a state-qualifying score on vault and Jaelee Grupe also hit the state-qualifying mark in vault. Kennady Van Lith received her third score in vault and floor exercise and is now qualified in three events for state.
Grupe noted that her squad continues to work towards the postseason and will get a feel for that competition with its biggest meet of the season at Madison with 11 Class A teams.
“Only five compete per event and the competition and judging will be tough,” said Grupe. “It should be fun to see where we can compete right now.”
The junior varsity will compete in its final meet of the season against Sisseton on Thursday. Ady Schmieg picked up a pair of top finishes at Huron, winning the floor exercise and winning the all-around title to help the young Lady Braves to a third place finish.
Temperature: 6°F Town: Britton, SD
Pressure: 1032 hPa
Wind: 8 mph
