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British Gymnastics' publicist, Bulgarian-born Vera (Marinova) Atkinson, twice World Champion in rhythmic gymnastics, sent me to St. Margaret's of Antioch Church in Coventry where a local Rhythmic Gymnastics Club met. There, I found my waifs. Rose Meredith holds hre position on the left until her music begins. Then, with a motion like a sigh, raises her leg straight up, as if drawn by a wire. It must be difficult, but Rose doesn't show it, and when she finally does move, the effect is uncanny. |
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All these talented young ladies had excellent attitudes and getting work permits for 13-year-old Aimee Johnson (in the back), and petite 14-year-old Yvonne Hill (with the white ball), but little Hannah Walker was too young, and Rose barely turned 13 in time to qualify. Debbie Maguire (right), understudied all the other girls' routines, and read the Queen of the Sidh's parts while Hannah read the bard's parts, and all the girls were "off the book" before I returned. |
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Left to right, City of Coventry rhythmic gymnastics coach Marion Sands, me, my lady, Judy, (just arrived from the U.S.A.), and 14-year-old rhythmic gymnast Yvonne Hill, in the North Forecourt of Blenheim Palace. Notice the foul weather gear. The natives are hardy stock, but although I am originally from Boston, Massachusetts, I have lived in southern California for a long time and on October 31st, it was cold in Oxfordshire. Ironically, the little sign in the background says "WAY OUT," but there was no way out for my intrepid little band. On the morrow, the result of our preparations would be known, for better or for worse. |
