March 24, 1999

LEXINGTON, Kty. – The University of Kentucky gymnastics team will begin post-season competition when it participates in the 1999 Southeastern Conference Championships on Saturday, March 27 in Tuscaloosa, Ala.

The GymKats (8-8, 1-4 SEC) will compete against Florida, Georgia, Louisiana State, Auburn and host Alabama when they tumble into this years battle for the conference crown.

The Kats posted their first conference win on Friday, March 12 at Auburn. The GymKats defeated the Tigers 195.250 to 193.300. Freshman Jennifer Simmons won the all-around competition with a career-high mark of 39.375. Simmons also won the vault competition, recording her first 10.0 from a judge, en route to the final score of 9.975.

The official draw for the 1999 NCAA Regionals will occur upon conclusion of all conference championships on Saturday. With this weeks rankings, the Kats have secured their place in the 1999 tournament. In order to qualify for nationals, UK must finish first or second at the regional to which it is assigned.