"Gymnasts’ programs have become more intense." Games of Countries Head Judge Vera Sesina on the new rules

The head judge of the international Games of Countries tournament, Vera Sesina explained how the introduction of the Sky Grace rules influenced the exercises of the athletes.

"We are holding competitions under the new Sky Grace rules for the first time. It took a long to writeand review them. Programs were staged. And now we have seen these programs. Programs of gymnasts have become richer, as distinct from rules of the international federation. We added body elements. Extra points for the amplitude and for unique physical qualities appeared. And now we are watching how gymnasts are coping with that," the judge said.

She added that the number of people wishing to perform according to these rules is on the rise. 

"Many gymnasts have come. There are more and more those wishing to participate. We cannot but be happy because the new rules elicited a response," she said. 

The international Games of Countries tournament was held at the Alina Kabaeva Sky Grace Rhythmic Gymnastics Academy, October 19-22.