Lee Trawick: reporter2@riverbendnews.org
Logan Lents (18) and Amelia Braswell (18) recently embarked on an unexpected journey with baton twirling. Both girls were raised in Lafayette County, not standing out as typical sports prodigies. They have no familial advantages to rely on, and have had to work hard to create their own paths. Their success is a result of sacrifice, dedication and hard work. They both started twirling at an early age and quickly became skilled at it. They shared a love for dance, competition and twirling. Rather than automatically aiming to win national championships or represent the United States on a global level, they focused on simply being the best version of themselves. They pursued their passion with determination and didn't let the fear of failure or rejection hold them back. They were unapologetic in their pursuit of the best performance they could offer. In July of 2022, Lents and Braswell participated in America's Youth on Parade (AYOP) at the University of Notre Dame. They were part of the All-Stars Twirling Academy from Middleburg, Fla., under coach June Stoeber's guidance. Despite the fierce competition, Lents emerged victorious in the Novice division's solo event, earning her the coveted title of National Champion. Braswell also performed exceptionally, displaying her skill and precision with each baton twirl and step, ultimately earning her the title of National Champion in the solo event of the Beginer division. Although they may not have expected it, the two young women participated in multiple team events, two of which they achieved second place. One of these events was the Twirling Corps Competition, which resulted in them being selected to represent the United States on Team USA at the inaugural International Baton Twirling Foundation (IBTF) World Baton Twirling Championship and Nations Cup in Liverpool, England. The two were determined not to waste the opportunity and to strive for excellence. They refused to rest on their past achievements. Now, the best baton twirlers from around the globe are coming together to demonstrate their skills and secure the title of World Champion, proving themselves to be the best not just in their school, district, region or country. Braswell is thrilled to be representing the United States and feels grateful and humbled by the attention she has received for her twirling. "It's such an honor and privilege to compete at the international level with my amazing teammates. All the hard work we have put in this summer will be worth it when we get there," Braswell said. "Getting to represent the country I love so much makes this experience much more special. Knowing there will be hundreds of people in support of Team USA brings me so much joy. I am truly honored and thankful for this incredible opportunity." Lents once felt the experience of joining Team USA was taken away from her. She earned top honors at the National Championships and was allowed to represent the USA globally; however, she suffered a severe injury to her foot in January of this year. Her excitement turned into a hope that she would be healthy enough to participate. While her injury could have sidelined her, she refused to let it defeat her. Her competitive nature drove her to overcome this obstacle, knowing her teammates were counting on her. "I am incredibly lucky to have the opportunity to represent the United States in Liverpool. At the beginning of January, I had a serious foot injury and was unsure if I would even be able to participate," Lents said. "After the many hardships I have faced this year, it is one of the most rewarding experiences. I am thankful for my wonderful and hardworking team members that have helped make this journey possible. I can't wait to showcase everything we have been working towards this summer and represent the United States in the best way we know how." On Thursday, Aug. 3, Braswell and Lents arrived in Liverpool to attend the opening ceremonies of the nine-day competition. The event will run until Sunday, Aug. 13. On Tuesday, Aug. 8, they will join their team for the first practice session, and on Wednesday, Aug. 9, they will participate in the Majorettes Traditional Corps event against five countries. The following day, on Thursday, Aug. 10, they will compete in the Majorettes Exhibition Corps event against seven countries. Keep an eye out for a follow-up on these two young ladies' performance in the Wednesday, Aug. 23, edition of the Riverbend News.