The big news regarding this year's Classics is that Bailie Key will not attend! She is out due to a "minor arm procedure."
On the one hand, this is unfortunate news, because Bailie is easily the best of the American juniors. On the other hand, this could provide for valuable experience for some of out other juniors who now suddenly find themselves in contention for a medal, or even the title, when they might not have before. This provides for a higher pressure meet for up and coming juniors.
With Bailie now out of the running, the main contenders are considered Nia Dennis and Norah Flately. Nia and Norah have come in second and third, respectively, in the all-around at both this year's Jesolo and Pac Rims. Nia has had a history of some inconsistency, and it should be good experience for her to have to compete for a title with another gymnast hot on her heels. Other gymnasts who may benefit from Key's absence include Ragan Smith, Emily Gaskins, and Jordan Chiles. The fight for medals suddenly got a whole lot more interesting!
Best wishes to Bailie for a speedy recovery and that she is back again for Nationals!
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