Opinions & Interviews

Kabaeva: New rhythmic gymnastics center will give a boost to this sport in Belarus

MINSK, 7 March (BelTA) - The opening of the National Rhythmic Gymnastics Olympic Training Center (Palace of Gymnastics) will give a boost to the development of this sport in Belarus, Alina Kabaeva of Russia, the 2004 Olympic champion in rhythmic gymnastics, said in an interview with the ONT TV channel, BelTA learned.

Alina Kabaeva noted that the place is comfortable for training. “This center is one of the best in the world. I am very happy that Belarus’ national rhythmic gymnastics team has gotten such a center. They waited for it for a very long time. They deserved it. Little girls who will come to train here will definitely become new champions. When I entered the hall, I said: it is a pity that I did not have such conditions when I was an athlete,” Alina Kabaeva said.

Alina Kabaeva also observed that the center has been built in the residential areas of Minsk. “If there had been no rhythmic gymnastics club near my home I would have not taken up rhythmic gymnastics.”

The Olympic champion noted that she loves the Belarusian training school. Gymnasts from Belarus have always been a good competition to Russian athletes.

Alina Kabaeva took part in the opening ceremony of the Palace of Gymnastics. “Without the support of the state, this center would not have happened. It is great that your President pays so much attention to sport,” she noted.

print version

make home page

add to bookmarks