Mellon Middle School rising seventh-grader Elizabeth Baldridge recently earned one of the highest honors in regional baton twirling, capturing the 2026 Beginner 10-12 Pageant title at the North Atlantic Regional Championships on June 6 at Pennsylvania State University.

Baldridge competed against 22 athletes from Pennsylvania, New York and New Jersey to claim the crown and secure a spot at the National Baton Twirling Association’s national pageant this summer at the University of Notre Dame.

The regional pageant tested competitors in several areas beyond traditional baton skills. To earn the title, Baldridge competed in three events:

• Modeling and Interview — a one-minute presentation designed to evaluate poise, confidence and communication skills.

• Strut — a two-minute routine that highlights marching technique, timing and presentation.

• Twirling — a two-minute performance focused on baton-handling skills, speed, precision and advanced tricks.

Baldridge has been involved in baton twirling since she was 6 years old and trains with Passion Twirl and Poms. Her regional title marks her first solo pageant victory and represents years of dedication to the sport.

Now preparing for the national competition, Baldridge is excited for the opportunity to represent the North Atlantic Region on a larger stage while continuing to develop her skills as a twirler.

A passionate advocate for the sport, Baldridge hopes to introduce more Mt. Lebanon students to baton twirling and help grow interest in an activity that combines athleticism, performance and teamwork.

She will travel to the University of Notre Dame later this summer to compete against top baton twirlers from across the country at the National Baton Twirling Association championships.