First year senior Maria Kharenkova is being considered for this year's European Championships The provisional roster for March's Cottbus Turnier der Meister has now been published, including significant teams for both MAG and WAG from the Russian Federation. For the women, it is an opportunity to give the developing gymnasts some competition practice before the big events of the year - Europeans, and World Championships. Of particular interest is the inclusion of first year senior Maria Kharenkova, who is expected to fight for a place on the European Championships team. Kharenkova has particular talents on beam and on floor and is considered by many to be an exciting prospect. This year will prove whether she has the potential to become an 'A' lister for the Russian national team. The Russians have slated teams 'in force' for this competition, including some of the top tried and tested gymnasts on the men's side. As ever, it remains to be seen ...
Reporting and analysing Russian gymnastics since 2010. Includes original and exclusive interviews with leading coaches and gymnasts, and historical issues dating back to the Soviet Union. The first blog to report extensively on the sport using Russian language sources. I read, I argue, and I have opinions. Be warned.