The 7th Aphrodite Cup commenced on Friday, Match 11 at the Faliro Olympic Indoor Hall with 135 gymnasts from 14 countries lining up for their 2022 international debut.
This year’s edition offers to more experienced gymnasts the opportunity to open their 2022 campaign and test their new routines in the perfect conditions the Olympic Complex in Palaio Faliro is keen to offer. For 80 junior athletes who have registered, the 7th Aphrodite Cup could well be the beginning of a glamorous international career, like for dozens of other gymnasts throughout the event’s six-year history.
At the 7th Aphrodite Cup, besides hosts Greece, the start-list features gymnasts from Australia, Belgium, Bulgaria, Czech Republic, United Kingdom, Germany, Kazakhstan, Israel, Latvia, New Zealand, Poland, Romania and Sweden.
The first day of action saw Greece’s senior group performing their new routines under the new code of points that applies in the current 2022-2024 Olympic-cycle. Greece topped Day 1, 5 Hoops competition amassing 27,200 points, ahead of Latvia who was second with 23,450 points.
Action resumes tomorrow (March 12) with the second part of all disciplines for both individuals and groups.
Opening Ceremony Welcome Messages
The President of the Hellenic Olympic Committee, Mr. Spyros Kapralos, declared the 7th Aphrodite Cup open, while he also praised those who contributed in establishing this international Rhythmic Gymnastics competition, as an annual event of high-calibre.
“Good luck to all the athletes and their coaches. Let the Games begin”, said Mr. Kapralos who also serves as the President of the European Olympic Committees and is an IOC member.
The Mayor of Palaio Faliro, Mr. Giannis Fostiropoulos welcomed all delegations to Greece and said that the 7th Aphrodite Cup along with next week’s World Cup, will bring the beautiful city of Palaio Faliro in the centre stage of the Rhythmic Gymnastics world.
“Sports is all about laying down the weapons and bring people together. We hope that next year we will see gymnasts from all countries -who were unable to join us this year – coming to Greece.
May you enjoy your stay in Greece, honour the fair-play rules and send a message for peace to the worl, with your performance”.
Mr. Athanasios Stathopoulos, President of the Hellenic Federation underlined the key-role the Aphrodite Cup and the forthcoming World Cup play for the Federation’s ahead of a demanding and challenging season.
“I wish you all to enjoy the spectacle and our dear guests to succeed with their goals”.
On behalf of the Organising Committee, the Vice-President of the Hellenic Gymnastics Federation and 2000 Olympic bronze medallist, Ms. Eirini Aindili thanked Mrs. Eleni Mihopoulou for her valuable contribution in helping Rhythmic Gymnastics become a popular and successful sport in Greece.
“I would also like to express my gratitude to all those who worked to make this event happen, our beloved volunteers and the paid-staff”.
The Vice-President of hosting club “Armonia”, Mr. Giorgos Kazantzopoulos praised the efforts of the foreign delegations who managed to come to Greece, despite the tough conditions each one of them faced during their preparation, as well as the Organising Committee, the volunteers and the sponsors for their commitment and support.
“Altogether we will make this event a big hit and I hope one day we will welcome here in Palaio Faliro an even bigger competition, like the FIG World Championships” he added.
