The HSBC Arena was built 2007. It has capacity of 14,981 for sports, but feels smaller.
Apparatus is Spieth. But the Floor is Gymnova. They must have collaborated to get just the right shade of green. 🙂
This competition is a rehearsal. Responsible are the IOC and the Rio Organizing Committee. Needless to say, they have far less expertise than do the FIG when they organize a World class event.
There was confusion and some minor problems day 1. I’m assuming those will be fixed by Saturday’s first competition. Lets cut them some slack. This IS the first Olympics ever held in South America. 🙂
Eight teams are fighting for 4 spots at the Olympics: Belgium, Canada, Spain, France, Germany, Netherlands, Romania, Ukraine
It’s Men’s Gymnastics so anything can happen: Pommels, Vault landings, H Bar release moves, Pommels, Anything.
It’s Men’s Gymnastics so podium training is absolutely no indicator as to competition performance.
If Germany doesn’t qualify, it’s a national disaster. They should have qualified at Worlds 2015.
France impressed me most of all 8 teams. Don’t bet the mortgage, but I’m putting down a sizeable bet they will qualify.
Belgium is ranked lowest of the teams here. It would be a huge happy surprise for them to get through as a team. I was impressed with their discipline and seriousness today. Respect.
As for the other 5 teams, I’d advise hitting as many routines as possible trying to save every tenth of Execution deduction.
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Individual Qualifications
The Olympics has many goals only one of which is gathering all the best athletes together to decide whom is best on the day. “Sport as a human right”, for example. A “spirit of friendship, solidarity and fair play”.
It’s not easy for Cyprus to compete against the USA, for example. But it certainly helps sport in Cyprus when they do. 🙂
Marios Georgiou of Cyprus had he best over-bar salto releases on H Bar today. HUGE. Catching with extended arms. (training VIDEO)
Sun Wei CHN hit the best Pommel routine I saw today. He scored 15.033 at American Cup. Filip Ude from Coatia is here, however. And Daniel Corral from Mexico. And more.
Randy Leru of Cuba showed the best full Floor routine all day. Small hop on 3/1 twist dismt the only obvious deduction. Great height & control.
related – 7 Caribbean Gymnasts Set to Compete at Rio Test Event
A new favourite gymnast for me is Oskar Kirmes from Finland. Exquisite form. Excellent technique on just about everything.
The Olympics wants representation from many countries, not only the best. I cheer stars from nations with limited resources. Like Ukraine.
Saturday will be interesting. Anything can happen. 🙂
more Grace Chiu photos
Gymnastics Coaching.com 