UAE gymnasts have potential to reach Olympic level

dubai — Rhythmic Gymnastics might not have struck the right ‘rhythm’ yet with the Emiratis, but that mindset could very well change soon.

Angel Ebru Ilgaz, founder and head coach of DuGym RG, speaking on the sidelines of the press conference to announce the 2nd Dubai International Rhythmic Gymnastics — DuGym Cup — said it (RG) is gaining in popularity.

“Rhythmic Gymnastics was not popular earlier among Emiratis but now, in the UAE, this discipline is very popular. We have been pioneering this event for the past 11 years so we have Emirati girls who are participating in international events. I can see they have the potential to go further and further … till the Olympic level,” added Angel, the first person to introduce Rhythmic Gymnastics in the UAE in 2006.

“The first Emirati gymnast in this discipline is now 16 years. Also, we have 12-year-old Emirati girls who have been competing since 2012 and their level is high. Some Emirati girls, though only 16, would like to be a coach some day under our club which we hope they will carry forward for the country in the future. And I will be really happy to see that.”

Speaking about the DuGym Cup, Angel Ilgaz, said: “Rhythmic gymnastics is an aesthetic amalgamation of sports and art.

“We at DuGym RG thought that it was essential to create a platform where not just our home-groomed gymnasts, but participants from world over would be able to display their competitive form.

“The debut chapter of this event witnessed stupendous success. To keep the momentum going, this year’s competition will be organised at a grander level with world renowned panel of judges and an increase in number of international participants.”

clareto@khaleejtimes.com