Any fan of rhythmic gymnastics knows and admires the stars of the sport, more often than not they are the incredible Russian superstars, however there are too many gymnasts who go unnoticed in the sport. Every gymnast regardless of where they are from, work incredibly hard for the most elegant sport in the world. Regardless of their placing at competitions, they appreciate and love encouragement and support, with every perfect performance comes an apparatus drop or point deduction and every gymnast needs a fan and friend to lean on and offer and give the wise and encouraging words. It might not be one of the powerhouses of rhythmic gymnastics but Estonia has been graced with an incredible talent in Viktoria Bogdanova.

I’m proud to be able to say I can call Viktoria Bogdanova a good friend of mine. I had the please of first communicating with her in 2013, Viktoria would have to be one of the most considerate, humble, thoughtful and kind individuals I’ve gotten to know. Her dedication and commitment to rhythmic gymnastics is outstanding. Countless hours of trainings alongside her twin sister and travelling to meets and competition never went unnoticed.

Viktoria started rhythmic gymnastics in 1999 at the age of 5, she trained with her twin sister Olga. She trains at GC Piruett in Tallinn Estonia. Viktoria joined the Estonian national senior team in 2010 and ever since has been a corner stone of the Estonian gymnastics and many up and coming gymnasts look up to and admire Viktoria. Viktoria had to overcome adversity in 2015 as she succumbed to a leg injury which meant she missed the 2015 world cup which was only a speed bump and her passion for rhythmic gymnastics got her back on the carpets more determined than ever before. Viktoria stated her reason for taking up the sport as “”I can express and portray what I feel.” Olympic representation and competing is still the dream goal of Viktoria’s.

Outside of rhythmic gymnastics, Viktoria studied at University majoring in Physical Education however rhythmic gymnastics is flowing in her veins with Olga and her holding workshops and masterclasses for junior and up and coming gymnasts to learn and train long side them which is a gratifying and rewarding experience. They even host their own rhythmic gymnastics event in Vinni, Estonia which is taking place on the 6^th and 7^th October.

Viktoria might not reach the highs and get the accolades on the world stage like the major names in rhythmic gymnastics but every time she steps onto the carpets, her smile is infectious and is ear to ear. Her fight and determination is inspiring and something that many look up to her because of. Every time she steps onto the carpet, she does it with poise, grace and elegance.

Instagram: Olga and Viktoria

Facebook: OlgaViktoriaBogdanova