Champion [2014]

Chapter 7- The Real Champion

"The champion of the year is about to be announced," Denise continued when the audience had stopped murmuring about the behavior of Melissa's mother. "There is one person in which we noticed incredible skill, partnership, and spirit. She made an amazing performance on every routine. The one-and-only intermediate girls' champion of the year is... Rebecca Robin!"

Emma screamed with delight. Becca sat, stunned. Rebecca Robin. Becca—the intermediate girls' champion. Champion. She couldn't believe it. She—Becca—had actually won first place! Emma led the audience in a cheer— "Becca! Becca! Becca!"

Becca came to her senses and walked up onto the podium. She could see the whole audience from here. She felt a proud and excited thrill as she spotted Emma and Mrs. Robin cheering loudly... and a jolt when she noticed Melissa's face. Her smile faded. Melissa was obviously feeling awful for treating the future champion so rudely—and sorry that her mother had made a fool of her in front of everyone. 

Becca looked at her tearstained face, and felt like a traitor, standing there grinning like a maniac while Melissa was so distressed. But her worries were forgotten as Denise placed the golden medal around her neck. She had always dreamed that she would one day win first place in a gymnastics tournament, and now her wish had come true.

Denise presented the beautiful gold trophy to Becca. Becca held it with one handle in each hand, feeling the cold metal against her hands. She beamed as everyone cheered.

Denise walked to the microphone. "Becca did an incredible job in the tournament. Congratulations, Becca, and I wish you good luck in the future. You are a truly remarkable person." She turned to the other girls and said, "I congratulate you all for trying so hard. You are all great athletes and great sports.

"Thank you for coming," she said to the audience. "Now, have a good time congratulating the gymnasts and enjoying the refreshments we have provided."

Becca looked giddily at the trophy in her hands. She couldn't wait to tell Katie Ramon!