Training Camp Bright Raven Gymnastics was selected for the second consecutive year to be the host site for the USA Gymnastics Rising Star Training Camp held October 13-14. Nearly 100 young USAG athletes from New York state had the opportunity to work with many knowledgeable coaches and officials. The featured clinician was Tammy Biggs of Texas, a member of the USA National Team training staff. The coaching staff included former gold medal Olympian Maria Korbatova from Russia, former National Ukrainian team coach Serguei Petrouniak and former Bulgarian National Team members Marian and Julia Penev. Other notable coaches included Jamie Winkler from Galaxy Gymnastics of Orangeburg, Long Island, Gary Gregory and Candy Jenkins from CNY Gymnastics of Syracuse, Jerry Time from Valley Gymnastics of New Hartford, Kevin Mahoney from Niagara Gymnastics of North Tonawanda, Kurt Stumpf from Stumpf's Gymnastics of Williamsville and two Bright Raven Gymnastics coaches, R.J. LeClari and Linda Bowser. Several gymnastics judges were on hand to lend their expertise including Elite Officials Phyllis Neimi and Jill Andrews of New Hartford, Valerie Stoughton of Clarence and Brevet Official Jim Burton of Buffalo. The clinic was rounded off with a presentation from Mark Gibson, author of "Going for It" and "If Gymnastics were easy they'd call it ... ?" The gymnasts ranged in abilities from Level 4 to Elite and worked with each of the clinicians equally. The camp events included tumbling, uneven parallel bars, balance beam, vaulting, dance, flexibility, conditioning and tumble-track. The Rising Star Training Camp 2001 was organized by USAG Region 6 as a fundraiser for the Region 6 National Team. Bright Raven Gymnastics is located at 12 Pixley Industrial Parkway in the town of Gates. |
