Eight rhythmic gymnasts from Sabah, Malaysia, visited Japan to participate in the 5th Takasaki Silk Cup competition in Gunma Prefecture. Through participating in the competition, the Malaysian gymnasts learned about rhythmic gymnastics techniques, training methods, Japanese culture and many other matters from Japanese athletes and instructors. They also joined Japanese students in a practice session held at the Tokyo Women’s College of Physical Education.

In Sabah, many children love rhythmic gymnastics. However, issues need to be solved in order to improve their skills, including insufficient instructors and limited opportunities such as competitions and presentations to demonstrate the achievements of their daily practice.
During their visit to Japan, the students spent time with high-level athletes in the same environment and learned training methods and other skills. I was happy to see them enjoy rhythmic gymnastics and their stay in Japan while becoming more confident.