Iliana Raeva Heads the Bulgarian Federation

As expected, Iliana Raeva is the new president of the Bulgarian Rhythmic Gymnastics Federation. Ina Ananieva will remain as coach of Bulgaria's group. The first thing the newly elected president said was that "young gymnasts need to get a chance." I really hope she means it. Her statement makes me remember a gymnast who was a great hope for Bulgaria, Filipa Siderova, who never got her chance and actually ended up competing for another country briefly. I will never forget this truly sophisticated and wonderful clubs routine:

I really hope that the new federation leadership will seek help from someone who can create such powerful choreography and will rely on girls who can rise to the same level.

Neviana Vladinova, Bulgaria's (Not So) New Hope

At the Italian Serie 2012, Neviana Vladinova from Bulgaria performed another strong ball routine. I have written many times, for a couple of years now, and I am writing again that Neviana deserves a spot on the Bulgarian national team. The Bulgarian Rhythmic Gymnastics Federation will be electing a new president next week, with Iliana Raeva being the only candidate so far. Unfortunately, fans already know that Raeva has her own plans about which girls from her own club deserve to be on the national team. Since Neviana is from the wrong club, we may not see her represent Bulgarian in big international competitions. However,  we still have the honor and pleasure to watch this:

Will Mariam Chamilova Continue Competing?

Talented individual gymnasts frequently transition to the group exercise. Mariam Chamilova from Canada was supposed to me one of them, but initially she rejected an offer to join the group.After not qualifying for the Olympics as an individual, though, Mariam wanted to become part her national team's group. It was then that the Canadian authorities decided not to hold a second qualifying event after the team earned an Olympic spot, and said they did not wish to potentially break up the team who had won the Olympic place. 

Mariam probably felt disappointed not to get a chance to go to the Olympics as a group member. I wonder if she will continue in the sport. Regardless of her decision, I am pleased to post some beautiful pictures of her.