Gymnast Maria Dmitrieva talks about her preparations for the third stage of the Cup of the Strongest

At the floor testing, gymnast Maria Dmitrieva from Moscow talked about her preparations for the third stage of the Cup of the Strongest, where she represents the Sky Grace International Association.

"We're preparing quite intensively for this stage. We've practically nailed the Raffaeli turn in all our routine, it's a sideways turn. It's very valuable right now, so we'll be picking up points on it. We've also added some rotational moves and interesting catches, from those Strongest Cup stages. I think it should work, Maria said. 

She shared the advice of her coach that helps her along the way.

"Don't fuss, calm down, because everything's been practiced. And, probably, the fact that I can do anything. Those are calming moments," the gymnast said.

In addition, the athlete told what she is like in life outside of gymnastics.

"Currently, I'm making some clay plates and figurines. I really enjoy it, but of course, I hardly have the time. I try to find a little time for it on the weekends. These figurines, they have very small details, the eyes, the face, very painstaking work. And here, you could say, we also refine every step, every movement, how to throw, how to step. Everything needs to be beautiful," Maria explained.

Maria also addressed the Sky Grace International Association. 

"I'm very grateful to the Sky Grace International Association for this opportunity, to Alina Maratovna, and to the fact that I can compete in these competitions and perform a little better than I did at the Russian Championships. I'm grateful to my coaches and my parents for their support, for believing in me, and for helping me," the gymnast said.