Sofia, Bulgaria: Bulgarian Rhythmic Gymnastics Federation provided an update on the visit of Olympic champions Simona Dyankova, Laura Traats, Madeleine Radukanova, Stephanie Kiryakova and Erika Zafirova to Japan. The ‘Diamond Girls’ five-day trip ended with visiting elementary and children’s schools.
On June 29, the visit continued with the Yai Jinja Temple, where everyone prayed for more success. The girls got acquainted with the art called “Iaido”.
This is an ancient Japanese martial art for self-improvement by the sword. Art is about the ability to draw the sword swiftly and defeat the opponent in any situation. That’s why it’s often called “sword stripping” art.
On June 26, 2023, the Bulgarian gold medalists visited Tokyo on an invitation. The diamond girls attended a press conference for the Japanese media at the Tokyo Olympic Museum on the first day of their visit. Later they went to a Japanese elementary school where they encouraged students to work hard and follow their goals.
The Bulgarian Graces also participated in a lesson in kata, which is part of Iaido. Then everyone was involved in the cutting of tatamas dressed in kimonos. Tomatoes are made from rice straw corn and are considered healthy for the human body.
The Bulgarian women once again proved their strength by successfully cutting all the tatamis, proving congratulations and applause from those present.
The day continued with a visit to the Okubo neighbourhood, where the “diamond girls” managed to “immerse” in the traditional children’s summer festival.
The locals enjoy origami-making, rice cracking, catfish game, and several other games in their spare time. With many smiles and a good mood, day four of the visit of the Tokyo champions ended.
Later, Nishigo and Tateoka were the next stop of the Olympic champions in Japan. Nishigo is a primary preparatory school, and Tateoka is a school for children with special needs.
The Bulgarian Olympic champions showed many elements with bodies and both devices to students from the two schools, and everyone present tried to repeat what was delivered. The children were very motivated by what they heard from their favourites.
They had prepared gifts for the champions and presented them with great excitement and joy. It turned out to be a one-of-a-kind master class and motivational meeting of the girls of the ensemble, which will remain an unforgettable memory for both sides.