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BLOOMFIELD HILLS — Bloomfield Hills native Elizaveta Beneicke traveled to West Palm Beach, Florida, to compete in the 2023 Rhythmic Development Program National Championships June 3, and she left as a national champion June 4.
Earning 1st in ribbon, 4th in rope, 10th in hoop, and 21st in floor, Beneicke earned first overall to become a national champion, but awaiting the results was the most nerve-wracking part.
“After the California girls went, I was still in first, and we were really surprised, and then there were only 10 more people who could beat me,” Beneicke said. “Most of them were from New York, and after New York went, I was still in first until the last girl went, who was in 71st. We were awaiting the results and we kept refreshing to see if she finished her ribbon, and if she got a 12.55, she would’ve tied with me. She got a 10-point something, and we were so happy.”
A fifth grader at East Hills Middle School this year, Beneicke competes with SK Rhythmic Academy in Troy as a level 6 gymnast.
Sofiya Kulikovska, founder of SK Rhythmic Academy, said Beneicke is a perfectionist when it comes to her craft.
“Liza loves the sport and wants to do it for herself,” Kulikovska said. “She would push herself to do skills over and over until she masters them just because it is important for her.”
Beneicke trains four days a week and often utilizes extra days to practice in efforts to elevate her skill-set.
When she’s not on the mat, Beneicke is just as talented as an artist with her drawings and sculpting skills.
“I like to make things,” Beneicke said. “I got this kit and I looked at the front of it, and you can make flamingos, caterpillars and butterflies. I made it, and I gave a little duck to my older brother, I gave a flamingo to my mom, and I gave a snowman to my dad.”
Beneicke’s craft-making skills extend far beyond her family.
“She helps her friends and makes little presents like bracelets and earrings for them,” Kulikovska said. “She collects wildflowers before coming to practice for the coaches and makes cards to brighten everyone’s day.”
A runner-up at regionals this season, Beneicke will look to qualify for nationals next season in order to defend her championship.
Beneicke said she has one thing on her mind next season.
“Repeat,” Beneicke said.
