Encasing the hoop
with shimmering synthetic material, Elena transformed the hoop into a
large hat and composed a highly unusual piece with the newly devised
apparatus.
Frolicking to a
jazzy piece, Elena kicked off the exhibition routine with a vertical
split and does a basic hoop transfer at the back from one hand to the
next. Note that although
this is considered a basic move for normal hoops, but given the tiny
size of the loop (cos the hoop was covered, remember?), the space for
the hands to maneuver the apparatus is greatly reduced, thus posing
difficulty for spinning motions and any forms of transfer.
Another interesting
action employed by Vitrichenko is the handstand, executed while the
apparatus is trapped in between the legs and back.
Not exactly difficult, but rather it is rare motion chosen by
gymnasts (except perhaps Almudena in her 1999/2000 hoop
routine).
In the middle of
the exhibition, Vitrichenko springs a surprise:
Placing the hoop on her legs while in a kneeling position, she
does a forward roll and kicks the hoop into mid air.Indeed a
refreshing choice of movement that brings some excitement into the
exercise.
Next, she does a
series of throws. Three, in fact, each separated by different leaps or rolls
before catching. Amongst,
look out for her semi back roll.
Here, she tosses, back rolls and lunges out her right leg to
kick the hoop up before snatching it to continue with the exercise.
Towards the
conclusion, she does some flexibility movements (e.g. her left leg
stretching towards her head as her body lies in the dorsal position),
balance pénche and vertical pivots, before placing the hoop on her
head like a hat.
Some
love this exhibition routine, others deeming it too snazzy.
To be fair, Vitrichenko proves herself to be a diverse
performer with contrasting styles.
The nubile charm oozed here is rare in RSG, but here’s a
friendly warning: If you
are the type who only enjoys serious routines, forget about this.
It needs a loosened up spirit to appreciate this deviously fun
exercise.
