THIAIS, France, March 28, 2017 – The U.S. senior rhythmic group won the bronze medal for five hoops at the Thiais Grand Prix in Thiais, France, this weekend. The group, which trains at North Shore Rhythmic Gymnastics Center, consists of Dasha Baltovick of Highland Park, Ill.; Natalie Bourand of Burr Ridge, Ill.; Ugne Dragunas of Darien, Ill.; Connie Du of Deerfield, Ill.; Yelyzaveta Merenzon of Buffalo Grove, Ill.; Nicole Skadkov of Vernon Hills, Ill.; and Kristina Sobolevskaya of Deerfield, Ill. The group from Azerbaijan won the five hoops title, followed by Italy. In addition to their bronze medal, the group finished fifth in three balls, two ribbons. Azerbaijan also claimed the top spot in three balls, two ribbons. The U.S. group finished fifth in the all-around standings.