Page 105 of Burnout
Because we switched the difficulty level of my dismount, the starting value of my beam routine is only a 9.9. That means I really do need to kill it.
My hands move gracefully as I move to the other end now, standing sideways and facing the judges while smiling like this is no big deal. And that’s how I feel. In this moment I am invincible. It’s a fleeting feeling. It happens so quickly I almost don’t recognize it.
A half turn on my toes places me back into position for my first combination. Side aerial layout step out. My heart soars with excitement and pride, but I don’t acknowledge it yet. I shove it down with my other feelings and focus on the next forty seconds of my routine.
My only thoughts are about execution. Not just in the technical skills but in my dance movements as well. Practiced grace on top of precision is the goal. I land my final cartwheel and then Gainer dismount with my chest high.
Relief like I’ve never felt washes over me as the world around me comes back into focus. I raise my hands for the judges andthen jog off to a smiling Coach Weaver. She’s a force in practice, but on competition days she’s our biggest cheerleader.
“Fantastic job, Avery. Your final combination was perfection.”
“I wobbled a little on the half turn.”
She shakes her head like it doesn’t matter, but it will in my final score. “Today, you proved that you’re back and ready to dominate beam like you were meant to do.”
She releases me as my teammates come over to congratulate me. High fives and hugs. Tristan doesn’t approach, but he tips his head to me.
My final score is 9.825. I try not to be disappointed. I know it was a good first routine of the season, but I’m already wanting to get back up there and work on my turns and switch out my dismount.
I’m also dying to text Knox and my family, but I know I need to celebrate with my team so I wait until we’re on the bus headed back to Valley.
Me
Your girl is heading home with some bling. ??
I second-guess the phrase “your girl” and hope he reads it in the playful tone I meant it. His reply is almost instant.
Knox
Congrats! Knew you could do it.
Me
Thanks. How’s Flagstaff?
Knox
Not bad. Looks like we’re staying tonight though so I won’t get to congratulate you in person until tomorrow.
Me
Bummer, I guess I’ll have to entertain myself.
Knox
Only til tomorrow. Gotta make some adjustments to my bike before tonight. Go celebrate with Quinn. I’m sure she’s dying to take you to some party.
That does sound like Quinn.
Me
Okay. Good luck with your double nac four sixty ??
And to Quinn…
Me
We’re on our way back. I got third place on beam!
