Page 33 - OCT 2018 The Castle Pines Connection proof 1

By Elise Brassell; photos courtesy of Gina Luber
In these days of gami ed everything, it’s refreshing to hear about kids having fun and working hard away from screens and electronics. Jaylyn Luber (9) and Jolene Luber (6) of Castle Pines do just that; they spend hours each week practicing and perfecting baton twirling routines, and their performances are so good, they’ve earned multiple awards at the national competition level.
Baton twirling rst became popular in
the 1930s when majorettes began to lead marching bands in parades by twirling shiny metal batons. The role grew in popularity through the 1960s and today baton twirling is making a comeback as a competitive sport at local, state and national levels. Universities across the U.S. are even adding baton twirlers and twirling scholarships to their sports programs.
These days, baton twirling is more than just glitter and sparkles. “The girls combine gymnastics and dance with ne motor skills, dexterity and hand-eye coordination,” stated Gina Luber, mother to both girls.
The Luber sisters began twirling at age ve, perhaps inspired by their grandmother Lela Prati Selby, a champion baton twirler from El Paso, Texas who has performed at Mile High Stadium for the Denver Broncos.
Jaylyn and Jolene have continued their grandmother’s winning tradition. During the national USTA Baton Twirling Championship held in Jacksonville, Florida this summer, Jaylyn took home rst place honors in her marching event. She won third place for
her solo baton routine and when the sisters teamed up for a pairs competition, they placed third in the nation. Jolene won awards in all
The Luber sisters enjoy the friendship and support
of the twirling community, including from their grandmother, who cheers them on at their competitions.
Neighbors to Know33
SPOTLIGHT: JAYLYN AND JOLENE LUBER
TWIRLING THEIR WAY TO THE TOP
Jaylyn (left) and Jolene (right) performing together in their team routine during national competition.
of her individual events, including second place in her solo one-baton routine.
According to the girls, they love how unique their sport is and love performing, as well as the friendships they’ve made. The girls began practice for their next season this September and are looking forward to twirling in the Louisville Parade of Lights this December.
Baton twirling is making a comeback and two talented Caste Pines
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