"It is very important to look for talented children in the regions." Coach and judge Valentina Oinonen on the Sky Grace tournaments

The coach of the Petrozavodsk athletic school No. 1 Valentina Oinonen, who works as a judge at the  Interregional Sky Grace Tournament of the Northwestern Federal District and St. Petersburg,  shared her expectations from the performances of participants from different cities before the start of the competition.

"I really wanted to participate as a judge. I am very happy to be present here. I hope to see plenty of elements that I like so much in the rules. I made them myself as a gymnast at some time. I am fond of difficult elements. I like when the girls perform them proficiently. And certainly I like to see them in programs for our children," Valentina said. 

She also shared what opportunities for development the International Sky Grace Rhythmic Gymnastics Clubs Association rules provide for gymnasts. 

"And I really wanted to visit the Sky Grace tournament exactly. I am for the first time at the Sky Grace tournament — this is my first time as the coach and the first time as the judge. I have always practiced in the region and I always wanted to take part in such large-scale competitions. Regrettably, there were no Sky Grace at that time. Nevertheless, it is very important to look exactly for ‘jewels,’ for such gifted children, not only in the center of Russia but also in regions. It is a great plus that such competitions are being staged," she said. 

The interregional Sky Grace Tournament athletic competition for the Northwestern Federal District and St. Petersburg will be held on February 13 and 14.