IRANIAN junior gymnasts will be competing in both Artistic and Rhythmic gymnastics competition in Malaysia from Sept 24 to 27.
As you can imagine, it can be a cultural dilemma to have female athletes from Islamic countries wear the required leotards.
In fact, some Iranian female athletes have fled the country in order to further their sport training. Perhaps that’s only part of the reason they leave. Improving their economic prospects is likely just as important to them.
related post – sportswear for the Muslim gymnast
6 comments ↓
The Iranian gymnasts might not have a problem with the attire just yet because they are Juniors. I think it’s only when they reach a certain age will they be expected to cover up. I’m not sure though. I just read once that Egypt has a pretty good Junior artistic team but then the girls have to quit before they are senior due to the leo issue.
the Egyptian situation has nothing to do with leotards; historically they’ve had a (my opinion: unjustfied and counterproductive) fixation on the 80s Eastern European model where every female gymnast over the age (I exaggerate…slightly) of 11 or 12 was considered “close to over the hill”…it will be interesting to see what the women they’ve entered in London WCs look like.
Sher, I’ve been to Egypt and the leo “issue” isn’t an issue.
Rick, anecdotally, I was the coach for Iran at the 96 WCs in Puerto Rico…an interesting chapter in my book which should be out at the end of this month…will keep you apprized (did I spell that right?)
;->
a prized, is what I want you to have said, Jim
Iran also has an aerobic gymnastics program.
The Iranian Gymnasts of 10 and 12 years are future Gymnasts to watchThey won most of the medal in Malaysia recently.
Thanks for the update. We'll be watching for Iran.
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