Published: November 23, 2009 10:35 pm         

TH’s Nowak tumbles way to third in world

TERRE HAUTE — Hannah Nowak of Terre Haute won a bronze medal in the 11/12 girls power tumbling event at the 2009 World Age Group Competition in St. Petersburg, Russia.

“She’s third in the world,” said proud coach Crissy LaFollette on Monday, just hours after returning to Indiana.

Hannah, a student at Honey Creek Middle School, trains with LaFollette at Tumbling Express in Washington, Ind.

The 11-year-old competed against 29 other tumblers from around the world, including Russia.

During the awards ceremony, which is similar to the Olympics, Hannah stood on a podium to receive her medal and a bouquet. The ceremony included the raising of the American flag and the playing of the national anthem.

Hannah’s goal was to make it to the finals. When she got the bronze, “It was just like — wow … I was really excited.”

Her mom, Kristi Nowak, watched the ceremony with tears in her eyes. “I’m a very proud parent,” she said.

Hannah “did really well. She was very confident and very outgoing,” Kristi Nowak said. When she wasn’t practicing or competing, Hannah went around meeting participants from other countries and they traded items such as leotards, T-shirts and hats — souvenirs of an unforgettable international experience.

Kristi Nowak said Hannah was the only participant from Indiana to bring home a medal. “She sets goals and works so hard to achieve them. I cannot believe how disciplined she is. She is so dedicated at everything she does. I am truly blessed,” Kristi Nowak said.

Madi Webster of Odon, who also trains with LaFollette at Tumbling Express, placed 13th out of 60 in individual trampoline competition for the 11/12 age group.

“I’m absolutely thrilled with how they did,” LaFollette said. “Just getting in the finals was our goal.”

In scoring, Hannah technically tied for second place with another U.S. competitor, Felicia Hano of California. Because of the tie, the judges looked at the “form score.” Hano received the silver medal because she “stuck” her landing. Hannah missed the silver medal “by one step,” LaFollette said.

Hannah, who celebrates her 12th birthday Sunday, said her goal now is to continue to improve, advance and go for gold in future World Age Group competition.