The Crescenta-Cañada Family YMCA Dynamite gymnastics team recently competed at the National 2012 USAIGC championships in Fort Lauderdale, Fla. There were 76 USAIGC clubs represented from the United States, Bermuda, Canada and South Africa and over 750 gymnasts competing. In the Copper Level, the local Y placed second in the nation.

Twelve local girls from ages 7-12 represented the Y. This competition marked the first time the Y team competed at a national level. The Dynamite team qualified at the state championships in early June and was the only Y branch that placed.

“I hope each of our gymnasts is as proud of themselves as we are of them,” said head coach for the Y, Annie Azizian. “I congratulate our team, parents and coaches for such a great achievement.”

In addition to the team success of finishing second overall, each girl placed individually as well: Megan Gmelich, 12, national champion on vault; Samantha Matara, 12, first place in all around; Lilianna Chalian, 7, first place on floor; Amanda Tulolo, 11, and Anika Sood-Mankar, 9, both placed second in all around for their age; Jamie Santos, 8, third place in all around; Elise Wu, Sara Stepanian, Kayla Lee, Camilla Moreir, Caelan McCollum and Alexis Scheir placed in the top third of their divisions.

The Y team spent the last few months not only practicing, but raising money to help pay for the expenses of the trip to Florida. New Moon Restaurant and Lexus of Glendale helped sponsor the team with generous donations.