Elena Chipizubov helps Australia to bronze at 2019 L’International Gymnix competition
Some exceptional results in the green and gold this year has put Olympic qualification in the sights of Elena Chipizubov and the Australian gymnastics team.
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After more than two years in the Australian gymnastics system, Elena Chipizubov is closer than ever to achieving her Olympic dream.
The 16-year-old from Beecroft’s international results this year have played a huge role in giving Australia a strong chance of earning 2020 Olympic qualification.
In February, Elena managed a fourth-place finish on beam at the World Cup Gymnastics Melbourne.
One month later, she put together an incredible performance on beam to help Australia claim a bronze medal at the L’International Gymnix competition in Montreal, Canada.
“When I received my medal in Canada, I was on cloud nine,” Elena said.
“It was such an accomplishment for me (just being) picked for the Melbourne World Cup. Being a new senior, I felt nervous but when I stepped out on competition day I felt like I was as ready as I could ever be. When I was performing on the beam in the arena packed with crowds, I felt like it was just me and the beam. It was a very special moment.
“But missing out on a medal in Melbourne by just 0.033 made (the bronze medal) even sweeter.”
In order for Australia to qualify for Tokyo, the team needs a top 12 finish at the world championships in Germany in October.
“I believe Australia is tracking well to achieve this,” Elena said.
“Competing at the Olympics would mean the world to me. It has always been my dream ever since I was a little girl so if I were to be out on the competition floor in Tokyo, it would be a huge achievement.”
Elena is a Northern District Times Junior Sports Star nominee for the 2019 Local Sports Stars competition, which is proudly sponsored by Featherdale Wildlife Park and Bankstown Sports.
The awards recognise and reward talented athletes across a wide range of sports, as well as the hardworking volunteers who keep associations running each weekend.
For more information or to nominate someone you know, go to localsportsstars.com.au
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