KAOHSIUNG, Taiwan, July 20, 2009 – 2008 world silver-medalists Kristin Allen and Michael Rodrigues of Livermore, Calif., won gold for the United States in mixed pairs at the 2009 World Games, taking place July 16-26 at the Kaohsiung Arena in Kaohsiung, Taiwan.
In second place following qualifications with a total dynamic and balance score of 57.306, the pair began event finals with new life. Taking full advantage, Rodrigues and Allen earned a combined routine score of 28.806 and a first place finish. Julie van Gelder and Menno Vanderghote of Belgium won silver with 28.653, and 2009 Acro Cup champions Katie Axten and Nicholas Illingworth from Great Britain took home bronze with a combined routine score of 28.551.
In other USA performances, Logan Dooley of Lake Forest, Calif./World Elite Gymnastics and Steven Gluckstein of Atlantic Highlands, N.J./Head Over Heels finished sixth in synchronized trampoline with a finals score of 48.700.
The USA qualified for the 2009 World Games based on outstanding performances at the 2008 World Acrobatic Gymnastics Championships in Glasgow, Scotland. At the 2005 World Games, the USA placed fourth in mixed pair in acrobatic gymnastics.
Approximately 4,500 athletes from 100 countries are expected to compete at the World Games, a multi-sport event held every four years during an Olympic year for those sports that are not included in the Olympic program. Although the Games officially began on July 16, competition for acrobatic gymnastics and trampoline and tumbling is scheduled for July 21-23 at the Kaohsiung Arena.
Head Coach: Marie Annonson
USA Judge: Kari Duncan
Head of Delegation: Tom Housley