Kramarenko triumphs at first-ever experimental rhythmic gymnastics international tournament

The first-ever experimental rhythmic gymnastics international tournament Divine Grace has reached a triumphant conclusion in Moscow.

The star of the show was 17-year-old Russian Lala Kramarenko - who dominated with victory in each of the four disciplines in the all-around competition.

On the last day of the tournament, the gymnasts performed their club and ribbon routines.

Kramarenko top-scored with the clubs not just because of her faultless execution but also her mastery of the tournament’s unique regulations - which allow participants to include as many body elements as they want. The change means big modifications to existing routines. Kramarenko was up to the task.

“This programme is very different from the current regulations,” she said. “Numerous elements have been added so it’s far more physically challenging. I liked it because we can reveal ourselves and show real rhythmic gymnastics.”

Russia’s Team leaders for the past five years, the Averina sisters, took part in the award ceremony gala. They said they like the new format.

“Yes, this was an excellent experiment because it’s an entirely different type of gymnastics,” said Dina. “What the girls are doing here is far more beautiful compared to under the current rules. It would be great for this tournament to develop further, and for us to try and take part.”

Anna Kamenshikova of Belarus and Ketevan Arbolishvili of Georgia appeared confident with the new Points Code, which comes into place from next year until 2024. They took second and third place after the club routines.

The ribbon is the trickiest and most spectacular discipline of the contest - and one which all admirers of gymnastics enjoy.

Kramarenko performed flawlessly once again, including an element which this