12. Juli 2006  
Tokyo / Japan  
Rhythmic Gymnastics

Rhythmic Gymnastics: Japanese Trials for Asian Games

Yukari Murata (JPN)

Last weekend were held the Japanese Trials for the this year's 15th Asian Games in Doha (QAT) in December.
In the Japanese capital Tokyo Yukari Murata, Ai Yokochi, Yuria Ohnuki and Sayaka Nakano were the best national rhythmic gymnasts at this competition.

Murata and Yokochi continue their careers. Murata changed this year to the 'Nippon University of Physical Education' and refreshed to start her training at new surrounding and good results.
In Japan, it seems like there's none catching up with her.
Even Yokochi doesn't, either but Yokochi showed attracive performances every competition, but in clubs, Yokochi made some mistakes at the Japaneses trials.....


Also Mimi Inoue fought hard, but this time she ranked on 9th place, only, but she is one of the promising youth gymnasts of Japan, so we must watch intently and from her generation, there'll appear and catch up Murata in near future. It is ideal style for all Japanese gymnasts, working hard together in rivalry, to rebel up to the world ranking.

>> The 15th Asian Games 2006 will be held from December 01 to 15 in Doha, Qatar and it's the international highlight for all Asian gymnasts of artistic, rhythmic gymnastics, but trampolining too.

Reported from Tokyo by Keiko Shiina
Photos by Takako Kobayashi

Photo, right: >> Ai Yokochi (JPN)