Loukas opened her program with a 63-point inward 2 ½ somersault pike, placing her in fifth place after the first round. After moving up to fourth place in the second round, Loukas executed a back 2 ½ somersault pike in round three for 67.50 points, moving her to third place.
The eight-time NCAA All-American continued her climb in the fourth round with a 70.5-point reverse 2 ½ somersault pike that elicited a roar from the crowd and launched her into second place. Loukas concluded her program with a forward 2 ½ somersault, 1 twist pike for 67.50 points to secure the silver medal with 328.95 total points.
“I’m really excited,” said Loukas. “Coming into this I was very nervous, but I just tried to take it one dive at time, and it was helpful having the whole team behind me, cheering and just being really supportive.
“It’s definitely a boost of confidence, because these people are the ones that I’ll be competing against if I make the Olympic Team. It’s a great motivator because now I know I can compete with them.”
The gold medal went to China’s Ting Li (363.85) while Paola Milagros Espinosa of Mexico (319.50) won bronze.
About USA Diving: Featuring America’s best divers, USA Diving is the national governing body for the sport of diving. Headquartered in Indianapolis, USA Diving offers diversified programs geared toward the broadest number of diving enthusiasts, from the novice to the world champion. USA Diving conducts approximately 40 regional and national events annually and is responsible for training and selecting teams that represent the United States at international events such as the Olympic Games, World Championships and World Cup. For additional information please visit www.usadiving.org.
