Chelsea Randle and Jacklyn Peterson each finished second in their respective divisions for the Watertown YMCA Twisting Starz team at the YMCA National Gymnastics Championships on June 23-25 at Toledo, Ohio.

The Twisting Starz, coached by YMCA gymnastics director Shawna Cutuli, sent 18 girls ranging in ages 8-14, to the competition. There were 1,700 gymnasts from 17 states at the meet.

“We are very fortunate to have our small team compete and medal at this national event,” Cutuli said. “It just shows that if you believe in what you are working for and put forth the commitment you can do anything.”

Randle scored 35.85 points in the Level 6 junior division, while Peterson finished with an overall score of 33.275 in the Level 6 child category.

Mackenzie Shortt-Jobson was seventh in Level 5 juniors, and Giavanna Doldo finished eighth in the Level 4 child division.

“The girls are very dedicated, putting in anywhere from 6-12 hours a week,” Cutuli said. “It takes a lot of commitment, not just from the gymnasts, but the families also sacrifice time, energy and money. Our goal is not just coaching gymnasts but building strong and confident youth who can take on any challenges in life.”

The local team is also coached by Tara Chernaskey and Samantha Bobkoskie.

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