Jan. 12, 2008

Complete Results

Denver, Colo. - Washington gymnastics opened the season at Hamilton Gymnasium against 15th-ranked Denver tonight, falling to the Pioneers, 194.900-190.475. Despite the loss, the Huskies saw some strong early season performances, including two event titles by junior Ashley Houghting, who captured first place on vault (9.875) and floor (9.850).

"We had to have our first meet and get out the nerves and the falls," said head coach Joanne Bowers after the meet. "We have a lot of work to do, but this was a good first meet."

Denver (3-1), who opened the 2008 season last week, was led by returning All-American Jessica Lopez, who won the all-around with a 38.775 and a first-place finish on beam.

In addition to Houghting's victories, Washington (0-1) saw excellent performances by the freshmen in their collegiate debut. Haley Bogart turned in a third-place finish on vault with a 9.825, while Kristen Linton and Samantha Walior finished fourth and fifth, respectively, on bars. Walior also scored a fifth-place showing on floor. Junior Kelly Gilbert was the Huskies' top beam worker tonight, earning fourth place.

Washington will be back in action next Friday, as the Huskies travel to Corvallis, Ore., to face off against No. 11 Oregon State in their Pac-10 opener. The Beavers will host the Huskies at 7 p.m. FSN NW will air the meet on tape delay on: Tues., Jan. 22 at 7 p.m.; Thurs., Jan. 24 at 2 p.m.; Mon., Jan. 28 at 2 p.m.; and Wed., Jan. 30 at 8 p.m.