SALT LAKE VALLEY, Utah. – Illinois men's gymnast Ian Skirkey qualified for the U.S. Championships following weekend action at the U.S. Classic, while Connor McCool was named alternate.

Skirkey competed on the pommel horse, scoring a 13.843 and placing first in the preliminaries to qualifying for nationals.

"The fact that Ian was able to qualify to U.S. Championships with two falls is a testament to how incredible he could be when he hits his routine," interim head coach Daniel Ribeiro said. "Now we have two weeks to work out the kinks before the championships."

McCool scored a 13.970 in floor to place fourth, good enough for an alternate spot. He also competed in vault, scoring a 13.300.

"Connor did a phenomenal floor routine, just narrowly missing out on qualifying to championships," Ribeiro said. "As the alternate, we will continue to push his routine for the next couple weeks as we wait to see if a spot opens up for him."

The 2022 U.S Gymnastics Championships will take place Aug. 18-21 in Tampa Bay, Florida.