LINCOLN, Neb.-The University of Kentucky gymnastics squad captured the first Southeastern Conference victory of the season over No. 20 Auburn at the Master?s Classic in Lincoln, Neb. Sunday. Senior Michelle Gales finished third in the all-around with a score of 39.075 to help the Cats claim victories over two ranked opponents.
?I am very proud of how the team performed today,? said UK head coach Mo Muhammad. ?The team has taken a step in the right direction and with determination and dedication we will continue down the right path.?
No. 5 Nebraska took the title with a score of 196.725 and Kentucky (6-7, 1-6 SEC) finished second with 194.900. UK was victorious over No. 10 Denver (194.450) and No. 20 Auburn (194.050).
Kentucky began the quad meet on the team?s stronghold, floor. Senior co-captain Michelle Gales led UK with 9.85, while freshman Kristen O?Shields recorded a mark of 9.8. Krystle Cook earned a 9.75 score on floor as the Cats ended the first rotation with a score of 48.725.
?Michelle is the team anchor,? said Muhammad. ?She is dependable and is the team source of support. Her leadership helps the team at every meet.?
The Wildcats moved on to vault, where junior Staci O?Keefe led the charge with a career-high mark of 9.85. Cook and O?Shields once again recorded solid scores, both finishing with 9.775s. Kentucky garnered a 48.850 on vault and headed to the third rotation with a team score of 97.575.
On bars Gales continued to guide UK with a score of 9.8, while Cook registered a 9.775. Crissy Cannon added a 9.75 and Rachel Riley helped the Cats with a 9.725. Kentucky concluded the third rotation with a mark of 48.850 on bars and headed into the fourth rotation with a team total of 146.325, just behind Auburn?s 146.350.
On beam the Cats performed like champions. Gales recorded a mark of 9.8 and Cook?s solid addition of 9.775 helped the Cats surpass conference rival Auburn. Kentucky recorded a beam score of 48.575 to conclude the meet.
UK seniors Michelle Gales, Krista Prestigiacomo, Kara Prestigiacomo and Lindsay Cameron will be honored on senior night vs. No. 23 Michigan State and No. 15 Central Michigan. Meet time is set for 7:30 p.m. Friday in Memorial Coliseum.
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