"This competition toughened to achieve further results!" Averina sisters, Maria Pobedushkina and Darya Trubnikova talking about the Crystal Rose

On the eve of the Crystal Rose international tournament to start in Minsk very soon, participants in previous contests shared their reminiscences.

Many-time world and Europe champions Dina and Arina Averina noted that it had been very interesting for them to compete and watch the struggle of two countries, Russia and Belarus.

"A very interesting competition: for juniors, for masters, and for pre-juniors. From the small age and to the most senior one. Two strong countries compete, Belarus and Russia. Two strong schools. It is so interesting to watch this."

Russian champion Maria Pobedushkina told us that she liked so much to perform in Minsk owing to support of the public.

"We came to Minsk very often and the unreal support from the Belarusian public was always there. I really liked to perform in that hall. I made a very decent performance with the ribbon and came third finally. I remembered that competition for long."

Youth Olympics champion Darya Trubnikova said that the Crystal Rose tournament helped her to take part in the qualification for the Youth Olympics.

"This competition toughened me to achieve further results. They gave a new impetus and also became a strength test in stressful situations. I won all the three types where I participated. This helped to take part in the qualification for the Youth Olympics."