Rhythmic gymnast and public figure Alina Kabaeva participated in the Heavenly Grace Cup, a noted international event held in Novosibirsk. The information comes from the official communications of the hosting club, underscoring the competition’s prominent status in the sport calendar.
In public appearances, Kabaeva chose a sleek black ensemble consisting of tailored trousers, a top with a low neckline, and a coordinating jacket. The outfit was complemented by low-heeled leather footwear and distinguished by a bold gold ring and bracelet. Her hair was arranged in voluminous curls, and the makeup emphasized an elegant evening look.
During the opening ceremony, participants were welcomed by Kabaeva alongside Sergei Akhapov, the Minister of Physical Culture and Sports for the Novosibirsk Region and an honored master of sports of the USSR, highlighting the event’s official endorsement and regional significance.
During the remarks, Kabaeva spoke about the broader schedule, noting that competitions would be staged across district levels and that young athletes were training with enthusiasm. She expressed optimism about a robust field of contenders and anticipation for the strongest performers at the All-Russian championships in Sochi, inviting the audience to follow the rising talents with keen interest.
Kabaeva began her gymnastics training at age eleven under the guidance of coach Irina Viner. By age fifteen, she claimed the European Championship title and went on to win the European crown four additional times, establishing her as a dominant force in European rhythmic gymnastics. In 1999 she added the World Rhythmic Gymnastics Championships to her list of achievements, and in 2004 she earned Olympic gold in Athens. After a storied career, she eventually stepped back from competition later on in the years that followed.
Earlier, it was noted that Polina Gagarina would perform at the Kabaeva festival, adding a musical dimension to the festival and enriching the program for attendees and fans alike [citation: Official club site].