A picture link, and media update

A news feature has appeared at http://rus.ruvr.ru/2010/10/08/24773120.html highlighting the migration of Russian coaches overseas as a major factor in the downturn in Russian gymnastics recently. Not a surprise, but Valentina Rodienenko quantifies this, asserting that around 364 coaches from the former Soviet Union have left the country. So enhancing the skills of coaches through a programme of training is a priority if the Russian resurgence is to be maintained long term.

Some lovely pictures of the Russian girls are on the Federation's website at http://www.sportgymrus.ru/press/photo/3677/4070/default.aspx
and include shots of the ever beautiful Liubov Burda, her fellow judges Shevchenko and Korolenko and coaches of the team, including, for the record

Viktor Gavrichenkov (shown here with Ekaterina Kurbatova)
Alexander Alexandrov
Andrei Rodienenko
Vassily Alexandrovich (acrobatics coach)
Vera Kiryashova (coach of Nabieva)
Marina Nazarova (coach of Afanasyeva and Semenova)
Vladimir Kuznetsov (coach of Anna Myzdrikova)
Sergei Ryubakov - don't know if he is a coach or an equipment steward!

Do feel free to add names in a comment if you recognise individuals not listed here.

I love these pictures not only for the gymnastics action but also for the happy, relaxed atmosphere they show in the camp. They were taken a week or two ago during a control competition at Lake Krugloye.