Nine-year-old Maggie O’Grady, a fourth-grader at Rice Elementary School, captured the title of "Novice Miss Twirler 2010" on March 14 during competition in Denver.

Maggie, an active member of the Rocky Mountain Baton Academy, competed in the 10-to-11 age group, edging out her older peers for the title.

She is coached by Yvonne Pedersen, the woman who inspired her to take up twirling. Maggie said she saw Pedersen perform and immediately decided she wanted to master the baton.

Coach Pedersen works with girls to improve their confidence, teamwork, sportsmanship, discipline and leadership skills, in addition to coordination, self-esteem, grace, poise, showmanship and rhythm.

Maggie said her goal is to become a second-grade teacher and half-time baton teacher.

On April 11, Maggie will take part in the Miss Majorette of Colorado/Miss Columbine competition sponsored by the National Baton Twirling Association.

Maggie said she practices two hours each day after school. She also is a member of the Wellington Boys & Girls Club, where she was named Youth of the Month last May. She is the daughter of Elaine and Preston O’Grady of rural Fort Collins. Her brother, Andrew, attends Wellington Middle School.

Maggie and her twirling teammates have been in numerous competitions and are currently raising funds to go to the national competition at Notre Dame University in July. Maggie will enter open competitions in solo, basic, strut, two-baton twirling and modeling. Her dance twirl team of eight will also compete in open events.