OLYMPIC HOPE

The 20th rhythmic gymnastics championship of Azerbaijan has been held at the Olympic complex in Ismayilli. Since the winner of the last five championships Aliya Qarayeva completed her career in sports after the London Olympic Games, everybody was looking forward to the emergence of a new national champion.

By the way, the proper policy of the Gymnastics Federation should be emphasized as it has conducted the latest championships and competitions in the Azerbaijani regions. It is known that most of the rhythmic gymnastics tournaments take place in Baku, and in this regard fans in the capital are quite happy, which is not the case in the country's regions. On the other hand, one of the main goals of Azerbaijan's Gymnastics Federation is encouraging the development of this sport not only in Baku but also in the regions of the country. To achieve that goal, facilities offering rhythmic gymnastics lessons have opened with the Federation's support in a number of regions, and quite a few girls are taking such lessons. The increasing public interest in rhythmic gymnastics in the regions will also drive competition in the national team in the future.

Though the championship was held far from Baku, the level of its organization was on par with tournaments that take place in the capital city. The Olympic complex, which hosted the championship, was absolutely full of spectators. The head coach of the national team, Mariana Vasilyeva, in an interview with R+ recalled these factors, praising the organizational work done.

"In Ismayilli we felt the same way as we did in Baku," she says. "All of our demands were being fulfilled. The organization of the competition was at the highest level. The championship was watched by a multitude of fans. The holding of the championship in Ismayilli will serve the promotion of rhythmic gymnastics in the regions. Great sports complexes have been built in all cities of Azerbaijan. This allows us to conduct such competitions in any corner of the country. I am very satisfied with the championship held in Ismayilli in all respects."

The staunchest competition at the tournament unfolded between Marina Durunda and Lala Yusifova. Ultimately, Marina, who obviously surpassed her rival, claimed the title of the best gymnast of the country.

She became the champion in the multidiscipline event, exercises with the ribbon, hoop and ball. In the exercise with the club, however, Lala Yusifova won the gold medal.

Though these athletes began taking part in adult competitions only this year, they demonstrated excellent techniques. Marina and Lala's programs enchanted the audience and proved that they are capable of taking the lead in the absence of Aliya Qarayeva.

Marina Durunda, the new Azerbaijani champion, shared her impressions with R+ following the championship.

"I distinguished myself at the national championship in a good sense of the word," Durunda said. "I was satisfied with my performance. Now I have to train even more and harder to achieve success at major competitions. The European championship will be held in Baku next year. It is necessary to prepare well for this competition and worthily represent the country. I will aspire toward becoming a prize winner. I can't confine myself to the title of the Azerbaijani champion. I would like to succeed in international tournaments as well, and I am ready to work day and night to make that happen."

Marina also spoke about her rivalry with Lala Yusifova. According to her, such competition will only promote improvements.

"We are competitors with Lala only at competitions," she said. "This rivalry will facilitate development and encourage us to train even harder. Both of us are leaders of the national team. We train together and jointly try to lead the Azerbaijani national team to new accomplishments. And my victory was facilitated by carrying out the exercises more accurately."

Lala Yusifova, the Azerbaijani champion in the exercise with clubs, is satisfied with the tournament held in Ismayilli as well.

"I have to work on improving myself and fully unlock my potential," she said. "I succeeded in winning the gold medal only in the exercise with clubs, though I could have accomplished more. I am good at doing exercises with a ribbon. I dream of achieving success at the tournaments that will be held next year. Overall, we had many exciting moments at this competition. There were a whole lot of fans in the hall. I think they don't regret coming there to support us and were happy with our performances, having experienced wonderful moments."

Speaking to R+, coach Mariana Vasilyeva cited the tremendous potential of the winners of awards at this tournament.

"The championship of Azerbaijan demonstrated that a new generation is growing up in the country," Vasilyeva said. "We need to work with these young people. Both Durunda and Yusifova have won various competitions and currently worthily compete with adults. We work with the youth on the basis of special programmes. Next year, they will amaze everyone by yet more marvelous performances. Competing with adults now, they realize their responsibility and aspire to become sportspeople capable of asserting themselves on the continent."

Marina Durunda, the new, 16-year-old champion of Azerbaijan, charmed the Ismayilli viewers with excellent plastics and refined moves. Accurately selected music and rhythmic moves complimented each other in her composition. Durunda proved to be a worthy successor of the five-time champion Aliya Qarayeva. Perhaps, she is even capable of surpassing her predecessor. Her first major challenge will be the Euro 2014, which will take place in Baku where fans will be looking forward to her claiming awards.

The main goal, the 2016 summer Olympic Games due in Brazil, remains a target. Marina will turn 19 in three years. If she qualifies for the biggest and most prestigious tournament on this planet, she can finally realize the long-desired dream of Azerbaijani rhythmic gymnastics fans, which is becoming a prize winner at the Olympics!