Earlier this month, TK grade 1 student Aline competed in a rhythmic gymnastics competition organised and hosted by Viktoria Karpenko - a two-time Russian national champion and the founder/ head coach of Karpenko Gymnastics Academy. More than 60 gymnasts competed during this one-day event and Aline came away with third place in her age group. A remarkable accomplishment for this young CIS athlete!

Rhythmic gymnastics is a sport that combines elements of ballet, gymnastics and dance. In order to be successful, rhythmic gymnasts must have balance, flexibility, coordination, and strength, and they must also be able to compete under intense pressure, and have the discipline and work ethic to practice.  Aline only started rhythmic gymnastics about 6 months ago but she is already demonstrating many of these characteristics.

Aline will be competing again in Singapore in early 2018, and she is also determined to train and compete at the 2nd Emirates International Cup in Dubai in mid 2018.

She has been amazingly dedicated and motivated with her rhythmic gymnastics, looking up to her coaches, seeing what older children are able to accomplish, and pushing herself to improve.

The diversity at CIS allowed Aline to find this sport through her friendship with a former CIS Russian classmate. Her parents also love the way that CIS PE, music and drama programmes allow Aline to express herself.  They believe these specialty classes have helped her learn to actively participate, set goals for herself and keep a learning mindset. They are confident this educational approach will set her up well to succeed further in gymnastics outside school.