Saskatoon twirling team travelling to Italy for world championships

WATCH: Nine Saskatoon athletes are getting ready to represent Saskatchewan on the international stage.

A Saskatoon baton twirling team is preparing to represent Saskatchewan at an international competition next month.

Nine athletes with the Trilogy Twirling Team will compete at the Nation’s Cup and World Baton Twirling Championships, held from Aug. 2–10 in Turin, Italy.

Amy Ketilson, 15, is among the athletes heading overseas.

“I think we’re all a little bit nervous, but we’re really excited to travel, try something new and compete,” Ketilson said.

She’s been twirling for seven years and is always trying to improve.

“My favourite thing about baton twirling is the challenge it gives you. There’s always something new to try,” she said.

The team earned its spot on the international stage after competing in the Canadian qualifier in Calgary this past February.

Head coach Kellie Towriss says the athletes, ranging in age from 13 to 19, have been putting in about five hours of training each evening ahead of the competition.

“They’re incredibly hard workers,” Towriss said. “From where they started at the beginning of the year to now — they’re motivated, they’re driven.”

The group will perform a total of 24 routines in Italy.

Before heading overseas, the team held a send-off performance Thursday night for friends and family.

“I love that my friends can come and see me twirl, because most of them haven’t seen me twirl before,” Ketilson said.

“Everybody is just there to cheer you on.”While Ketilson said she hopes to do well at the championships, she’s most grateful for the experience.

The twirlers take off for Italy Sunday.