I didn’t link to the crazy story that the Romanian Head Coach called British gymnast Beth Tweddle a possible “doper”.
The same Beth Tweddle that was just awarded the MBE by the Prince of Wales. Role model to gymnasts everywhere.
It must have been some sort of misquote. I assumed.
Nobody would be silly enough to make that kind of accusation … right after his team was beaten by the British.
The next day Forminte fumbled an apology.
Now we’re hearing buzz that former Head Coach Octavian Belu MIGHT return after the World Championships.
This would be akin to the USA, in a panic, hiring Bela Karolyi or Steve Nunno, to replace Marta.
A bad idea.
Update: Dmarten of gymgossip.com tells that Belu’s role might be that of consultant, no more. Whew.
4 comments ↓
I totally agree. This would be a huge mistake for Belu to come back, especially after all the abuse allegations. This happens, and you can kiss Romania’s medal chances goodbye. This will turn into the 2000-2003 fiascos all over again.
I highly doubt anyone in the RGF would be that stupid. Belu’s probably consulting Forminte on how to train the kids slowly rather than pushing them, although that’s ironic-nobody broke more Romanian gymnasts than Belu.
Knee-jerk reaction to “losing” such as the one suggested always irritated me.
Here’s an update: I’ve been told that this isn’t really the case-that if Belu is anywhere near the Romanian team, he’s in a consulting role and nothing more. We’ll see.
Thanks Dmarten. Glad to hear it.
Leave a Comment