Decades of Bulgarian Gold Tradition : A Comparison

As many of you know, the Bulgarian rhythmic group won the gold in one of the finals at the World Championship in Montpellier. Here is their winning routine, which I find "safe" but smoothly executed:




To take us on a trip of beauty back in time, I will also remind you of the last time the Bulgarian group won a world title: in 2005 under Lili Ignatova with these ethereal 5 ribbons, also a very safe routine, with some extremely intelligent choreography:




Finally, another 6 years ago, one of my favorite groups of all time presented this routine at the Worlds in Osaka. You will spot a lot of differences in the level of risk, originality and style between those routines. Feel free to share with me what those differences are.

But I can tell you this: despite the error, this routine is crazy. And I would dare many 2011 teams to perform it. Double-dare: perform it with wide smiles on their faces:




Sometimes the most daring routines are not winning ones. But they do win the hearts of the fans. However, it is important to be "safe" and "smart" when you are going for a world title. And now the Bulgarian team is doing just that. 12 years ago we were really "out there" in terms of innovating. But now we are back on the podium!

You may call it a "win-win" situation.

Shelby Kisiel to show world class talent at the World Championships

The list of participants at this year's World Championship has come out and guess which of my personal favorites will represent the United States: Shelby Kisiel, of course. I already wrote about her here: http://ludafenka-en.blogspot.com/search?q=kisiel

I am glad Shelby's going to the Worlds because I think she is probably the best North America has had to offer... possibly ever. When I look at Shelby, I see clean lines, beautifully arched feet, a super model figure, natural elegance, very nice arms, a lot of control in her balances, top-notch back flexibility,  style, and charisma. This gymnast could do magical things on the carpet! I just hope she stays healthy and does not choose other beautiful things to do other than our favorite sport.

And, I just want to add something about her purple leotard: I want it! Where I would wear it remains unclear, but it gets very close to what I would call "a perfect match" It really works with her fair skin tone, and calls the attention to her wrists, which is always feminine and fun.

As a treat to the fans, some Shelby pictures:

Sofia Dreams and Shimmers

Here are some pictures from the World Cup event in Sofia last month.

Photography: Alexander Dimitrov Seuret


Two super-talented gymnasts in yellow:







Which of these gymnasts is going to the Worlds in Montpelier? Tricky question but the answer always is: the coach's favorite, of course.

Striking groups:





I have to say I love watching the German group more and more but not as much as I enjoy watching Switzerland. As for Japan, I have always loved their style but I have seen even more imaginative routines from them than what they are currently showing.