Nearly 1,000 female gymnasts from throughout the country will converge on the Gateway Convention Center in Collinsville Friday through Sunday for the 16th annual Gateway Challenge.

The event, hosted by World Class Gymnastics Center in Belleville, and its parents association (GYMPAC), is a prestigious competition involving competitors, 6 to 18 years old, performing all levels of gymnastics.

"This is a unique event for the competitors and an exciting opportunity for spectators and fans to experience some of the best young gymnastic talent in our country," said Patrick Hulliung, owner and coach of World Class Gymnastics.

Gymnasts will compete in United States of America Gymnastics (USGA) level events including floor exercise, uneven bars, vault and balance beam. Gymnasts compete for individual rankings as well as overall team placement.

Saturday evening will feature the TEAM Challenge event, a main highlight that is exclusive to the Gateway Challenge meet. Eight selected teams compete on each of the four apparatuses. Teams choose one gymnast in each event from each level to represent their team. Gymnasts of varying levels compete with their team for a chance to earn the title "Gateway TEAM Champions" and win a cash prize for their gym. This is a spirited event with music and lots of audience cheering.

Admission is $10 per person. Discounts for children and three-day passes are also available.

The World Class Gymnastics Center has been providing gymnastics instruction to families in the Belleville area since 1984. From recreational classes to competitive teams, it offers a wide variety of classes for all ages and skill levels. We are a USA Gymnastics Member Club with competitive programs for Rec Team, USA Team, Boys Team and Cheer.

For more information, visit www.wcgcusa.com