A farewell ceremony was held on the 15th for Ukrainian rhythmic gymnasts who had been training in Takasaki City, Gunma Prefecture, to return to Japan to participate in competitions in Europe.
Top Ukrainian rhythmic gymnasts have been training in Takasaki, Gunma Prefecture since last month, leaving their home country, where Russia is continuing to invade.
Under these circumstances, the athletes left Japan and returned to Ukraine on the night of the 15th in order to participate in the competition held in Europe, and a farewell ceremony was held with the attendance of members of the local rhythmic gymnastics club. rice field.
Team head coach Irina Deryugina expressed her gratitude, saying, "Everyone in Takasaki welcomed us with kindness and an open heart, and we felt like family." said.
After this, a list of 580,000 yen including donations collected from citizens was handed to the athletes.
Vozniak Anastasia, who also participated in the Tokyo Olympics, said, "In Takasaki, I had a great time experiencing homestay and practicing with the children. I want to do my best with the goal of the world championships this fall." I was.