Israeli Women Training Well (16th November, 2005)

After a mammoth 28 hours of travel, the Israeli team tackled its first training session. The women’s coach, Zahara Zissman was pleased with her team’s showing, admitting she had not known what to expect after the marathon trip.

‘After 28 hours of travelling, the girls are working well,’ said Zissman.

Israel is being represented by National Gymnastics Champion Verel Finkel. The 16 year old gymnast has had a busy 2005, finishing with silver at the 17th Maccabiah Games in July and a 6th placing for floor at the World Cup event in Cottbus in March.

‘Everything is going very well on the apparatus. I am looking forward to competing,’ she said.

Joining Finkel is team mate Tal Liak, who nursed a heavily taped lower left leg as she concentrated on stretching and light floor exercises.

‘My calf muscle is sore but it will be okay for the Championships,’ said Liak.

Look for complete coverage of the 2005 World Championships in issue one of Backflip Gymnastics Magazine. Subscribe today!