Denis with the family kitten, a few years ago! Courtesy of VTB/family Ablyazin Denis Ablyazin yesterday became the most decorated male Russian Olympian gymnast since 2000, when Alexei Nemov became all around champion. His silver medal on vault was won in a final of the highest quality ever seen; his bronze on floor earned thanks to a brave routine of non-stop power tumbling. Denis, who turned 20 at the weekend, is a Leo by birth sign and demonstrates all of those flamboyant birthsign qualities in his gymnastics. His energy and positive, cheerful character seem sure to make him a favourite with the crowds as well as judges in the future. Now read on as Denis's mother talks about his growth and development as a gymnast in an interview with VTB correspondent Irina Belozerova, translated brilliantly by Lupita. Don't cry mum!! Interview with Liubov Ablyazina “My son told me: I’m choosing gymnastics” Liubov, your son practiced cycling,...
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.