2000 National Judge's Cup (March 2000)
by Hawley Almstedt
The National Judges Cup hosted by the Texas Sport Ranch on January 8th and
9th was a great experience. The meet was hosted with true southern hospitality
in a fabulous facility outside of Houston. The enormous gymnasium decorated with
Texas stars and cacti held two sets of equipment quite spaciously. The facility
also provided dormitory style housing and meals for athletes, coaches, and
judges. Everyone working the meet was extremely friendly and helpful. By the end
of the meet, the chef even knew my name.
The evening before competition began, a clinic was held in preparation of
judging the optional competition. Dena Parrish, the clinician, was assisted by
talented gymnasts who demonstrated bonus connections on bars, beam, and floor.
The clinic helped me to better answer the ever-present question, “to give or
not to give?”.
Many teams from all over the country competed in the eight session meet. It
was exciting to see gymnasts and teams from other states. Although I did see a
lot of great gymnastics, I must say Northern California gymnasts are definitely
at the top compared with the rest of the country. Judges from 26 different
states volunteered to officiate the meet. I sat on many four-judge panels where
I was the only person from California, if not the only one from the West Coast.
I was amazed to find that judges from all over the country with very different
experience levels could come together and score routines nearly exactly the
same. “Bingos” actually occurred in some sessions.
The group of Level 6 gymnasts from Northern California represented their
state well. They dominated the meet and earned second place in the team
competition. Jennifer Shipman and I had the opportunity to stay in the dorms
with the Level 6 Team. Their excitement and love for the sport of gymnastics
reminded me of the reasons for which I became a judge. I am thankful that I had
the opportunity to travel to Houston to judge the meet. The diversity in
competition and the fun-loving attitude of the Northern California Level 6 Team
is not something I will soon forget.
