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Media updates and picture link

A news feature has appeared at http://rus.ruvr.ru/2010/10/08/24773120.html highlighting the migration of Russian coaches overseas as a major factor in the downturn in Russian gymnastics recently. Not a surprise, but Valentina Rodienenko quantifies this, asserting that around 364 coaches from the former Soviet Union have left the country. So enhancing the skills of coaches through a programme of training is a priority if the Russian resurgence is to be maintained long term.

Some lovely pictures of the Russian girls are on the Federation's website at http://www.sportgymrus.ru/press/photo/3677/4070/default.aspx
and include shots of the ever beautiful Liubov Burda, her fellow judges Shevchenko and Korolenko and coaches of the team, including, for the record

Viktor Gavrichenkov (shown here with Ekaterina Kurbatova)
Alexander Alexandrov
Andrei Rodienenko
Vassily Alexandrovich (acrobatics coach)
Vera Kiryashova (coach of Nabieva)
Marina Nazarova (coach of Afanasyeva and Semenova)
Vladimir Kuznetsov (coach of Anna Myzdrikova)
Sergei Ryubakov - don't know if he is a coach or an equipment steward!

Feel free to add names if you recognise anyone not mentioned here!

The pictures were taken during a control competition at Lake Krugloye in the past week or two. I love them for the way they highlight not only the gymnastics action, but also the relaxed and happy interaction going on in the camp.

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