© James Glader

• Complete Group Results

MIE, Japan, Sept. 12, 2009 – The group all-around finals, which included 24 participating countries, concluded today at the 2009 World Rhythmic Gymnastics Championships at the Sun Arena in Mie, Japan.

After competing in hoop and ribbon/rope, Italy earned the all-around title with a total score of 54.400. Belarus won the silver medal with 54.200, while Russia took bronze scoring a 51.350.

Competing for the USA was North Shore Rhythmic Gymnastics Center’s Stephanie Flaksman of Northbrook, Ill.; Megan Frohlich of Marysville, Wash.; Kristin Kaye of Northbrook, Ill.; Sydney Sachs of Deerfield, Ill.; Sofya Roytburg of Buffalo Grove, Ill.; and Marlee Shape of Buffalo Grove, Ill. The USA finished in 16th all-around with a score of 44.325.

The eight best groups on each apparatus qualified for apparatus finals, which take place tomorrow and conclude the 29th Rhythmic Gymnastics World Championships.

Group All-around Results
1. Italy, 54.400
2. Belarus, 54.200
3. Russia, 51.350
4. Azerbaijan, 50.500
5. Israel, 50.475
6. Spain, 50.450
7. Bulgaria, 50.150
8. Japan, 50.100