When Wilbraham & Monson Academy's Lauren Poole '17 advanced to one of the most competitive gymnastic competitions in the country, she wanted to win her event and have a good time.
It's fun when things work out.
Competing against gymnasts from all of New England and New York, Lauren won the Level 9 vault at the USA Gymnastics Region VI Championships in Springfield April 7-10.
"It was awesome," Lauren said. "It felt so good."
Not only did Lauren post the highest score for her division, but also her score of 9.325 even topped the winner at Level 10, which is the highest level.
"It made me feel so good," she said. "My confidence is much higher."
Lauren won the Level 8 vault two years ago and hoped to defend her title in 2015. She sprained her ankle, however, prior to the state meet and therefore couldn't advance to the regional competition. The setback, though, pushed her to perform at her highest level this year.
"I wanted to make the most of the opportunity because I didn't make it last year since I was injured," she said. "That was my motivation and to do the best vault I could."
With regional wins on the vault in the Level 8 and Level 9 divisions, Lauren's next goal is obvious.
"I hope to be Level 10 next year, and qualify for states and regionals, and become the Level 10 regional champion in the vault," she said.