Below is the list of tables from the database along with their columns and datatype. Need to generate an accurate SQL query for the question.
Only use the columns present in the respective table. Only use the columns which are required to generate the SQL query. Only use table joins if required and not otherwise.

### Tables ###
TABLE: CREATE TABLE table_16268026_3 (preliminary_average VARCHAR, semifinal_average VARCHAR)

### Question ###
What is the preliminary average when the semifinal average is 8.834 (3) ?

### Accurate SQL ###

SELECT preliminary_average FROM table_16268026_3 WHERE semifinal_average = "8.834 (3)"