Rewriting Russian Gymnastics

The evergreen, always opinionated Valentina Rodionenko Lupita translates below an interview with Valentina Rodionenko from the 28th February.  This was before the Russian Championships had closed, but it provides some useful insights into likely selections for the European Championships.   On the women's side, Rodionenko echoes what Grebenkin said earlier this year - there are few up and coming gymnasts who can replace the members of the London Olympics team.  Euros looks likely to revolve around Mustafina and Grishina, with some juggling of the places going on around Shelgunova, Paseka, Afanasyeva and (less likely) Dementyeva.   On the men's side, she emphasises that fierce competition is emerging for places on the first competitive team this year.  There are six places available for Moscow, and I am intrigued to know who the second all arounder is likely to be! The aim of the Russian championship is to select the team for the E...