YOUNG Dana Ashley of Glen Waverley sent competitors at the recent national baton twirling championships into a spin.
The 11yearold won the gold medal for her division after taking up the sport only two years ago.
She said while it was competitive, it was also fun.
"I like how it has rhythm to it and you get to learn a variety of moves. There is a lot of room to be an individual in the sport, for instance by decorating batons with colourful tape to reflect your own personality."
Ashley fell in love with the sport after professional twirlers performed at a fiesta at Highvale Primary School in Glen Waverley.
"My mum asked if I wanted to try it and I knew I wanted a shot."
Ashley said she couldn't have won the national championships without the support of her family, friends and her school.
"The school really supports me with it and I've met a lot of friends through baton twirling."
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