Author: Rick Mc

Career gymnastics coach who loves the outdoors, and the internet.

Penev – forward double double

Click PLAY or watch it on Instagram.

(via papaliukin)

Kyle Shewfelt’s 2008 comeback

Kyle had every reason to retire after 2004, the Olympic Floor Champion.

But he felt driven to train for one more. Beijing would be his 3rd Olympics.

In 2006 FIG changed the Code of Points to reward difficulty over execution, Kyle’s forte. In 2007 Kyle suffered a horror-show injury landing Tamayo with straight legs at Worlds. Yet he still wouldn’t give up.

This week @Olympics posted his comeback story.

Elena Eremina – Nabaeva

Elena is coached by Vera and Alexander Kiryashov. She’s from the same Gym in St Petersburg as Tatiana.

Click PLAY or watch it on Instagram.

Louis Smith should be reprimanded

Louis has made many mistakes over the years. Seems to enjoy controversy.

Though this one is more juvenile than anything else, I messaged British Gymnastics recommending he be reprimanded. His reaction to the public furor was undisciplined at best. He’s a bad ambassador for the sport. This behaviour is exactly what we want to discourage. 😦

Carly Patterson said she didn’t mind, if that’s a factor.

As a one apparatus contender on one of the best teams in the world, Louis should be doing everything right to stay on the A squad. There are a dozen guys waiting to step into his place.

related – British Gymnast Louis Smith Gets A Perfect 10 In Sexism

Komova stops training

Vika:

‘Dear friends, fans, and gymnastics lovers. Unfortunately back pain isn’t allowing me to train to my full potential and get ready for competitions. I’ve made the very difficult decision to stop training and take care of my health. I want to thank everyone for their support! Without your love and warmth it would’ve been more difficult to go all the way. Thanks everyone and see you soon! Love and kisses.’

Details on Rewriting Russian Gymnastics.

Komova

She won’t try for Rio. But doesn’t say she’s retiring.