Gymnasts lose in close margin at nation’s capital

After posting its best composite score of the year, claiming the all-around title and taking three of four events, the Kent State gymnastics team was on its way for a win.

But George Washington (2-2) also recorded its best score of the year, claiming victory over the Flashes 192.600-192.375.

Sophomore Jill Kowalski led the Flashes (2-3, 1-1 Mid-American Conference) as she placed first in the all-around competition for the second straight week. Her 38.225 finish also ranks as her personal best in the event.

Kowalski also had a three-way tie for third in the uneven bars with George Washington’s Amy Stack and Abbey Myles with a score of 9.625 and grabbed a fourth place finish on the balance beam with 9.625 points.

Senior Carrie Mayle contributed with a second-place finish on the vault, scoring 9.725, and a third place finish on the floor with 9.775 points. She also placed third in the all-around behind George Washington’s Erin Aiken with a score of 37.750.

Finishing first on the bars and second on the beam was sophomore Kristin Peters with scores of 9.700 and 9.675, respectively. Sophomore Amy Presan placed ahead of Peters on the beam with 9.700 points.

The Flashes will compete against Central Michigan at 7:30 p.m. Feb. 24 in their last regular-season road meet.

– Amanda Vasil