Watkinson student Elijah Harris has qualified for the Men’s National Championships in Daytona Beach.

Submitted by Jenni French, Watkinson School  

On Sunday, April 11, Elijah Harris ’22 (West Hartford) competed in the USA Gymnastics New England Region competition. This meet, which was held virtually, is the qualifier for the national championships. Elijah placed second on the vault, which qualifies him to represent New England at nationals in Daytona Beach, Florida on May 11-16.

For the virtual regional competition, athletes competed at their home gyms and were judged via Zoom. While Elijah was competing with his team, Daggett Gymnastics, at the gym where he normally trains, each athlete must qualify for nationals individually.

A competitive gymnast since he was 8, this is Elijah’s seventh time competing in regionals and third time making it to the national stage.

Watkinson Athletic Director Ann Haggerty comments, “Elijah represents everything Watkinson athletics strives for: joy in competition, tenacity while working towards one’s goals, and being an encouraging teammate.  We are exceptionally proud of his work ethic and accomplishment.” Watkinson School requires students to participate in on-campus athletic endeavors; both inter-scholastic or club/intramural options are available. However, accomplished athletes who compete in sports Watkinson does not offer (like gymnastics, horseback riding, hockey, etc.) are given extraordinary support and flexibility to achieve in their chosen arena.

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