Lets look again at the controversial finals Horizontal Bar routine of Alexi Nemov from Athens 2004.
Click PLAY or watch the video on YouTube.
I spoke to one of the judges who felt strongly this routine could not have finished higher than 5th no matter how many times you watch the replay. There are definite deductions.
Nemov is a crowd favourite with fantastic style, amplitude and artistry. Everyone wanted him to finish with a medal — but he made errors.
This type of routine with multiple connected release parts is what should be winning the 2006 World Championships. I look forward to seeing what happens with the new code.
Nemov is a class guy who handled Athens with aplomb. Certainly one of my favourite gymnasts of all time.
UPDATE – some good comments on the Yin blog
Gymnastics Coaching.com 