(C) LOC / EINS / Y. KATO

Anna Bessonova is one of the most popular athletes and most likely one to claim the gold medal.
In 2003 and 2005 she missed to make the top, but became the all-around champion in the 2007 World Championships in Patras.  Here’s her interview:

Anna Bessonova:

“I think I have changed a lot after the Beijing Olympics.  I was tired and even thought of retiring, but afterwards, I recovered and started to train again to present myself to the Japanese people.  I’m looking forward to show my new programme and hope that the audience will appreciate my new style.  I also hope that the judges will understand what I’m aiming for.”

Head of Delegation Irina Deriugina:

“Anna has changed mentally as well as her attitude towards rhythmic gymnastics.  She has grown as a person.  I’m sure that she will fully exploit her potential and capture the heart of everybody with her performance.”

　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　     　　　　　　　     　　　　       　　(posted by Kinuyo Takahashi）