Ukraine did not have a good showing at the 2018 European Championships and, as a result, they did not get any non-nominative spots. This means they could only send to European Games the gymnasts who earned nominative spots at this year’s Euros. This was likely one of the factors affecting Oleg Verniaiev’s decision to come back after his surgery much earlier than expected. He had two surgeries just in February but plans on competing in the all-around at the European Games.
Gennady Sartynsky, the head coach of the Ukrainian MAG team, told iSport.ua that the gymnasts are in good shape:
“Petya Pakhniuk is read, he’s in good shape, same with Igor Radivilov. Oleg Verniaiev is a bit less prepared, since we’re only starting to work on all six events. But he started doing his signature events better. I think we’ll get to the European Games in good shape. He’s still far from his best shape, but what he’s got today is quite good already. He’ll improve more in the week that’s left until the European Games.”
“The issue is that the event finals are the next day after the all-around final. For those who will compete in the all-around final, it will be hard the next day. Igor Radivilov won’t do all-around, so it will be easier for him to fight in the final, if he makes it.”
“Talking about the finals, it’s important to note that only 6 people make the final and only one per country. For example, on parallel bars, we could’ve expected medals from both Oleg and Petya but only one of them can make the final. Generally, we expect Oleg and Petya make two or three finals, this would be good for them. Igor will compete on two events, we hope to see him in the final on both.”
Support Gymnovosti on Patreon from only $1 a month and help us bring to you even more awesome gymnastics coverage!
Buy cool gymnastics-themed t-shirts, hoodies, pillows, phone cases, and more at our store on Teepublic!
I am rooting for Pakhniuk. He is on fire since he’s become a dad!