Back on topic!
DD's gym hosted a meet last month, and I volunteered to be a timer on bars a particular session (levels 7-10). It was the first time I had ever done so on bars, and I rarely get to see our higher level optionals compete, so I was excited for the opportunity to get to see bar routines up close! Some interesting things I heard and saw, and some of MY reactions:
* Gymnasts hit their feet on the low bar - I'm a relatively new parent in the sport and did not know this was a thing! It sure isn't something I ever picked up on watching competitions on TV.
* Upper level optionals bar routines are beautiful and terrifying at the same time. Blind landings? Flyaways? These kiddos are absolutely amazing.
* We had only ONE L10 competing that session, and *everyone *, (incl. the bars judges next to me), watched/commented all of her routines intently - all very positive feedback. The whole gym, other teams and parents included, clapped and cheered her on - it was a small meet - and that was so cool to witness. Lots of collective breath holding during her routines, LOL.