10 April 2023
From April 6 to 9, the 34th International Rhythmic Gymnastics Grand Prix took place in Thiais, France.
Azerbaijan was represented in the competition by individual gymnast Zohra Aghamirova and members of the senior group team—Gullu Aghalarzada, Leman Alimuradova, Kamilla Aliyeva, Zeynab Hummatova, Yelizaveta Luzan, and Darya Sorokina.
The tournament was marked by successful performances from our representatives, who brought home a total of 1 gold, 4 silver, and 1 bronze medal.
The first medal for our team came from our experienced gymnast Zohra Aghamirova, who won silver in the all-around on the first day of the competition. On the second day, in the apparatus finals, she outperformed all her rivals in the clubs routine to claim the gold medal—her first-ever Grand Prix gold. She also won silver in both hoop and ball routines.
In the same day's group finals, our group team also delivered impressive performances, standing on the podium twice. They earned a silver medal in the 3 ribbons and 2 balls routine and a bronze medal in the 5 hoops routine.
It is worth noting that the Thiais Grand Prix was the first appearance of Azerbaijan’s senior group team this season. Their last performance had been at the World Championships held in Bulgaria in September of the previous year, where they made history by winning a bronze medal.
For Zohra Aghamirova, this was her second competition of the season, following her participation in the World Cup held in Sofia earlier in April.
Based on these results, the start of 2023 can be considered successful for our rhythmic gymnasts. Greater challenges lie ahead, as our athletes prepare for more serious competitions.