The U.S. National Baton Twirling Championship took place in Beaumont, Texas starting July 13th. Top of the line twirlers competed for the gold in this exciting event that happens each year. Next year, make sure you’re performance ready by getting the proper equipment for all your competition needs at Star Line Baton.

• History: In Eastern Europe and Asia, baton twirling started when people did tricks with things like knives and sticks. This was upgraded into guns twirled by people in the army for entertainment during parades. The gun was then exchanged for a mace, offering poor stability for twirlers. In the end, the mace was adjusted to be lighter for an easier opportunity to twirl, and became the baton that many performers use today. The sport of baton twirling was brought to the United States by Major Millsap with the formation of Millsap’s College. Thanks to him, there are now multiple organizations and national competitions for baton twirling.
• The Sport: Baton twirling involves using a metal rod and the body to perform a routine. Three main characteristics include how a performer uses the baton, dance and movement with the baton, and gymnastic elements. The twirler uses the baton by turning, rolling, and tossing it in the air. Performers must have proper timing to toss and catch a baton. Dance is also incorporated into baton twirling, showing off flexibility and beauty. Gymnastic qualities such as tumbling and other skills create risk. This is all coordinated to some sort of music. There are individual as well as paired or groups of twirlers, with anyone from novice stages to elite stages competing. Individual twirlers can use up to three batons at a time in a routine, while groups of twirlers need to perfectly match each other.

Baton twirling is obviously physical, but it is also psychological, emotional, and educational. Tthe U.S. National Baton Twirling Championships this year in Beaumont, Texas ran from Monday, July 13th to Saturday, July 18th. Want more information about baton twirling? Visit our website and read our blog, or give us a call at 931-528-7829.

Posted: 7/29/2015