Tatiana
is not a renowned rhythmic gymnast as compared to her Ukrainian
teammates, but her routines are definitely worth a check out,
especially her 1997 clubs routine. This is the routine that is by far
her most famed and most successful masterpiece that earned her a
bronze medal in the 1997 World Championships held in Berlin.
Popova
boasts a beautiful opening position. She places the clubs on her chest
and lies back in a flexibility pose (somewhat similar to Erofeeva’s
00 hoop). When the sober music begins, she raises her hand (in a
way that reminds me of a meander), makes mill circles and gets up
via a body wave. She demonstrates some balance elements here,
performing a vertical spagat, then a vertical toe into a MG. The
following element is her first large throw, in which she catches in a
split leap position. She does a double vertical pivot and releases the
clubs for a second throw again. This throw is relatively similar to
the previous one but she catches in a double stag leap position.
As
the music brightens up and the rhythm becomes louder, Popova performs
an original move – she bounces a club and does an acrobatic ring
kick. This
move is not really difficult, but is considerably spectacular. I
notice that she displays quite a bit of emotions that certainly help
to bond with the spectators. Subsequently, she performs yet another
original move: she does turning split leap and catches the club while
doing a pivot. Even the commentator seems to be highly impressed. She
executes some excellent pirouettes that are aided by her elasticity.
One of her pivots (in a combination) looks original too.
Towards
the conclusion, Popova mainly performs big throws. The first one is
quite common. She performs a split leap and then an arching double
stag leap before catching. It is the last throw combination that is
interesting. She throws the clubs at different heights; roll once to
catch them and throw both clubs again, doing a roll prior to the
catch.
Popova’s
clubs routine scores in originality: in terms of choice of music,
variety of throws and dexterity. Someone even suggests that she is
telling a story with music and movements.