Justus, Belanovski eager for next steps in Pittsburgh

5861By Jo-Ann Barnas

PITTSBURGH – Their college choices are different, but their goals are the same.

A little background: Hunter Justus, who’s already two classes into his freshman year at Oklahoma, won the 2013 junior elite division 15-16 title at the 2013 P&G Gymnastics Championships.

Dmitri Belanovski, who’s off to Michigan at the end of the month, captured last year’s 17-18 national title.

Both are eager to take the next step.

For Justus of Cypress, Texas, it’s to claim the 17-18 crown, while Belanovski of West Allis, Wis., is aiming to compile enough points on the first day of Friday’s junior competition to make the cut for Sunday’s senior men’s final.

“Right now, I feel real confident,” said Justus, 18. “I’m looking forward to vault and parallel bar.”

Belanovski, 19, said: “Of course I want to make the junior national team again, and then get enough points to compete with the seniors on the second day.’’