Baton (twirling)
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A baton is a light metal rod that is used for keeping time, twirling, and juggling in marching band, cheerleading, and parade performances, usually by drum majors or majorettes (Drum majors typically use either the larger mace or the smaller military baton.)
Baton twirling is a sport of unknown origin. Many people say that the Dutch introduced baton twirling to America in 1681 when they landed in Pennsylvania, others say Major Millsap created baton twirling when he established Millsaps College in Mississippi after the Civil War.[citation needed] The sport has expanded beyond parades and is now more comparable to rhythmic gymnastics (which includes manipulation of ribbons and light objects). In the USA, the top twirling organization is the United States Twirling Association. Other organizations include Drum Majorettes of America, the National Baton Twirling Association, Twirling Unlimited, and TwirlMania. The sport is popular in many countries including Japan, France, Italy and Canada. Many countries compete each year at the World Baton Twirling Championships.
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There are two major twirling organizations including; NBTA(National Baton Twirling Association) and USTA (United States Twirling Association).
