September 12, 2009
Enjoying the Professional Performances of Rhythmic Gymnastics (10th September, 2009)
BESSONOVA (UKR)
There are many events in Olympic sports, and those that aim for record times such as track and field competitions or swimming are easy to understand. However, figure skating, synchronized swimming and rhythmic gymnastics that are rated by judges are more difficult to comprehend by common spectators.
What is the artistry ofrhythmic gymnastics?
One of the characteristics (features) is that it is performed with music, so the harmony of bodily movements and music, i.e. movements, expressions and rhythm matched to the music style are evaluated and appreciated. At the same time, the skill and variety in maneuvering the respective apparatuses are also of great importance. The choreography is rated by the judges of the artistic panel. The colorful and beautiful leotards that captivate us just as the performance itself, have no incidence in the official evaluation but are equally a point of attraction.
KAPRANOVA (RUS) ANAKUBO (JPN)
The race for the team title is over. After four days of fierce competition, the result was:
1. Russia, 2. Belarus, 3. Azerbaijan.
The Japanese team made an ultimate effort during their last exercise and came in 9th. Anakubo made her first appearance in a World Championships with the ball, overcoming her nervousness and presenting her routine with composure. Onuki’s presentations had speed, no major mistakes and sufficient technical difficulties, altogether a satisfactory performance in all four disciplines in my opinion. Hidaka displayed her pivots and techniques in apparatuses to dynamic music. Her solid performance earned her a place in the individual all-around finals.
Individuals Final
Russia’s Kanaeva won the titles in ball and ribbon with solid performances in both routines, thus becoming the quadruple queen of these championships.
KANAEVA (RUS)
(C) LOC / EINS / Ｔ.YAMADA
Ukraine’s Bessonova enchanted the audience with a crisp performance and skillful handling of the ball, and in ribbon performed a perfect drama that prompted huge applause and a standing ovation from the audience.
No doubt that the athletes were tired after four days of competing in different routines, but they are all wonderful professionals able to control their body and mind to perform perfectly under whatever stressful conditions.
(by Kinuyo Takahashi)
