SAFETY TRAINING

PADS

A-169-W UNEVEN PARALLEL BAR TRAINING PAD Ideal for practicing hip circles. Only 15". Long enough to pro· vide ample protection yet will not interfere with hand position.

TEAM 9.50

A-l70 BALANCE BEAM TRAINING PAD Added protection in learning backward rolls, hand stands, and other skills. Covers 16' 5" beam.

TEAM 49.95

A-l70-1 Same as above except 5'5" in length for partial beam covering.

TEAM 19.95

A-170-3 Same construction as above except in three 5'5" sections which will cover all or part of beam as required . Sections are se· cured with velca closure .

TEAM 59.50

A-169 PARALLEL BAR PADS Ny·O·Lite filler with bonded Powerhyde cover and velcro fasteners . Lightweight padding allows bar to flex, yet gives complete protection for beginners as well as advanced performers attempting difficult routines. Set of four, five foot sections.

TEAM 59.95

Better Not Take Safety Standards For Granted When You Buy Gymnastic Apparatus Nissen doesn't.

In fact, most new safety and convenience features for gymnasium apparatus in the last decade have been developed by Nissen.

Who else would think of putting a Floating Counterbalance device in each apparatus upright to make height adjustments almost effortless? More importantly, the counterbalance prevents the parallel bar, for example, from suddenly dropping, possibly causing pinched fingers or bruised foreheads. Who else but Nissen would develop an almost unbreakable Perma-Wood top bar for parallel bars, fusing hardwood laminations together under extreme heat and pressure?

Noone insisted these changes ... except Nissen.

Heavier gauge materials, interchangeable parts so improvements or innovations will fit equipment in the field, streamlined, protrusion-free design - Nissen has engineered new safety into gymnastic equipment, on its own, without an outside organization requiring it.

Some equipment buyers take safety standards for granted. If you're

that way, your best bet is to buy equipment from a company that doesn't. Like Nissen, for instance. Nissen Corporation, Cedar Rapids, Iowa 52406

A floating counterbalance is installed inside each upright of Nissen parallel bars to keep the pistons at static tension. Only a slight hand pressure is required to raise or lower the bar.

VOL. 4 NO. 1 SEPT.-OCT., 1969

CONTENTS

FROM THE EDITORS DESK .. ..... .. ... ...... ..... .. .... 4 TURNKUKEN (Rigby) .. .. ... ... ...... .... ... ... .... ..... 5 GYMNASTICS WITHOUT MEDALS-

The 5th GYMNAESTRADA ... ..... ....... ..... .. 6 A GYMNAESTRADA SCRAPBOOK .. .. ... ... .. ....... 10 A BRIEF HISTORY OF THE GYMNAESTRADA ..... .. 23 MLLE G SCOREBOARD ..... .. ........... ....... .. ..... 26 MLLE G NAMES 'N' NEWS .... ... ... .. ... .. ... ... ... .. . 27 HELENS CORNER .. .......... .... ...... .. .. .... .. .. ..... . 28 LETTERS .. .. .. ..... ... .... ... .. ...... ..... ... .. . .. .. .. .. . 29 MLLE G CALENDAR ... .... .. .... .. .. .. ......... .. .... ... 30

COVER: The 5th Gymnoestrado symbol filled with scenes from the 5th Gymnoestrodo.

GLENN M. SUNDBY - Publisher DENNIES BARBER - Editor A. B. FREDERICK - Assoc. Editor BARItARA B. SUNDBY - Managing Editor

MADEMOISELLE GYMNAST is published by Su nd by Publications, 41 0 Broad­way, Santa Manica, Ca li fo rn ia. Application to mai l at Second Class Postage rates is pending at Santa Monica, Calif. Pu blished bi-monthly, Sept.-Oct. , Nov.-Dec., Jan.- Feb., Mar.-April, and May-June. Price, $3.00, per year, 75c single copy. Subscription correspondence Box 777, Santo Monico, California 90406. Copyrig ht 1969. All rights reserved by Sunday Publi­cations, 41 0 Broadway, Santo Monico, California 90401 .

FROM THE EDITOR'S DESK: I do not presume to fill the qualificat ions Glenn Sundby

published in the January-February Mademoiselle Gymnast (that could be no one person), but a deep interest in artistic, rhythmic, modern and children's gymnastics and dance should do to support me in a desire I know so many of our readers share with me - that is, to further these activities and to provide the instructional, educational and visual data which Glenn Sundby has had the foresight and per­severance to present in this publication. A man of high mo­tivation and extensive energy he has many more plans for the gymnastic publ ic, and I simply wish to serve his efforts, and your interest, to keep this channel of communication and information ever open and wide and valuable. I can but reiterate earlier editorials by Glenn and Barbara Sundby . . . "This publication will be devoted to Artistic, Rhythmic and Modern Gymnastics for Women and Girls . . . empha­sizing educational programs, instructional aids and cur­rent international trends in Women's Gymnastics" (July/ August 1965). "The aim of Mademoiselle Gymnast is edu­cation and inspiration" (Spring 1966). "The success of the efforts of our . . . staff will be measured to a great extent by your own active participation. Express your desires, send reports, contribute something of yourself to add to and to complement our best efforts for continuing growth in a very exciting field" (Fall 1966). Plans are being worked out to have state reporters to provide more total coverage of news and to serve as a local representative of Mile G to our readers .. . gathering news, features, and offering quick contact for materials and information.

* * * To Bruce Frederick I wish to extend special apprecia­

tion for his outstanding contributions of the past and for his sensitive and imaginative reporting and observations of the Gymnaestrada presented in this issue. My gratitude goes to Glenn Sundby whose confidence supports me in this challenge and to my family who contribute encourage­ment, assistance and patience throughout. Your patience through my trial-and-error period in this new capacity, along with your suggestions and comments, ideas and information will be gratefully received and considered and will be of great value and assistance. One very significant contribution by every subscriber would be to encourage more of her kind . . . subscribers.

No matter what they are . . . .

"Hide not your talents; they for use were made. What's a sun-dial in the shade!"

-5- TURNKUKEN (Gymnastic Cookie) Rigby

GYMNASTICS WITHOUT MEDALS -THE 5th GYMNAESTRADA

·6-

(BASEL, JULY 2-6) A. B. Frederick An American at a Gymnaestrada might be adequately

compared with an Eskimo in New York. It would take at least a dozen modes of expression from our own culture, combined into a single event, to begin to understand the spirit and color of what happened in Basel last July. Think of a State Fair but add 800 flags representing the counties and cities of, for example, Pennsylvania. Add to this number at least another 1,000 symbolizing gymnastics in its purest form, its Gym­naestrada form; that is "Gymnastics without medals."

Think of the famous Mummer's Parade in Philadelphia on New Year's Day or the Rose Parade in Pasadena. Some of the flavor of these events are part of word picture you should have to color your imagination as you read and look at the black ond white images we present in this issue of Mlle. G.

Think of a family reunion with its beer, hot dogs and children. I n Basel the international gymnastic family, repre­sented by at least 10,000 actives, a universal term for prac­ticing gymnasts, and many more who just came to see and be a part of it all, were reunited through the efforts of the F.I.G. and its most capable host, the Swiss Gymnastic Feder­ation. For 500 years Basel has served as a trade, fair and convention center at a point where three great countries converge and the mighty Rhine River, sprinting out of the Alps, takes a sharp turn northward carrying with it commer­cial shipping from and to the North Sea.

Think of the United Nations and its General Assembly. The counterpart in Basel was the General Assembly of the F.I.G. The politics, motions and decisions that we understand in our own State political conventions was a part of whole picture. The 1969 Basel Assembly will, no doubt, have a tremendous effect on the future of gymnastic organization in the United States since a Commission embodying both the USGF and the AAU will henceforth be recognized by the inter­national gymnastics body.

Think of a national convention, for example the annual meetings of the American Assoc. for Health, Physical Edu­cation and Recreation. I n Basel an International Scientific Symposium convened in the days preceding the festival proper. Under the direction of the Sportsmaster of the Uni­versity of Basel, Dr. F. Pieth, the attendees considered the complex problem ... "The requirements of men and women in sport." The United States was represented by Dr. Ernst

Cartaans appearing in laca l Swiss paper during the Gymnaestrada.

Bruce and the SCATS baarding street car in Ba sel

Jokl (University of Kentucky), who joined an international staff of lecturers from Holland, Germany, Austria and Switz­erland. The Trade Center, known as the Mustermesse, also provided a special film theatre where one could view current films on gymnastics and other topics from a number of countries.

Now, if you will, imagine the color of fifteen bands of the largest colleges gathered together on a single football field . Take away their instruments; dress them for gymnastics and have them move together in the performance of a simple series of calisthenics. Imagine our impression as 1,500 girls of the Swiss Gymnastic Federation opened the Gymnaestrada at Stadion St. Jakob. They marched in along the sideline of the soccer field and once they were all assembled they crossed its width. The green grass almost disappeared as it was covered with blue leotards and beautiful legs. The Landhof (athletic field), quite near the demonstration halls of the Mustermesse, was the scene of at least six different per­formances each involving 300 or more gymnasts.

On the subject of clapping .. . all Americans have heard the rhythmic clapping of baseball fans. Such clapping is common when the local crowd senses or hopes for a rally of runs which will result in a favorable score. International gymnastic crowds also participate in rhythmic clapping, but the claps coincide with the walking, skipping or marching gait of the performers. The clapping begins as the gymnasts appear to perform and if their work is especially appreciated, the volume at the close of a performance is audibly louder and more unanimous. On one special evening performance this clap of appreciation belonged to an American girl ; the one the Germans nicknamed "Turnkuchen" (Gymnastic cook­ie), our own Cathy Rigby.

A regular feature of the Gymnaestrada is an evening devoted to performances of world class gymnasts. Cham­pions from Russia, Czechoslovakia, Germany, Japan, Jugo­slavia, Switzerland and the United States performed optional routines. It is a tribute to the great Cerar of Jugoslavia to have been selected for the third straight time to perform at a Gymnaestrada "Night of Stars." But Saturday evening, July 5, 1969 belonged to Cathy (also nicknamed "Wirbel­wind" - whirlwind). The throng of witnesses she had de­lighted on the beam and bars refused to 3top clapping until she stepped forward for a second bow. Her single arm walk­overs on the beam and cast off, full turn catch to glide kip on the low bar, drew the heavily whispered "Heeeey" of the

-7·

spectators. The night before, a superlative double back trom the horizontal bar by Dave Thor had evoked the same sound.

Children as young as three worked with their young German mothers and " Old Timers" from Holland, a group of 190 ladies, showed their stuff on t he Landhof. There is nothing in our own world of sport or physical education to compare with these kinds of European work. Perhaps we will be wise enough at some future date to recognize that physical edu­cation and its foundation stone, gymnastics, is a lifetime activity. Unless an American can pay an exorbitant tuition, preschool and postschool gymnastics and physical education are not available. As schools in our communities assume more of a comprehensive role in community life we may yet see the day when we use our school resources adequately enough to form a parallel with the typical European sports club. But this will only come when our mania for special ization subsides a bit and physical education is upgraded and appre­ciated as much as, for example, competitive basketball for girls in Iowa. Movement education in our own country today is approaching the status that it received in Germany in the years before World War II. Although the Turnerbund and the Gymnastikbund* were not unified in those days in Germany and all but eliminated during the Nazi regime, they none­theless paved the way to a better gymnastics in postwar Germany and elsewhere. Consider for example the tremen­dous influence of Laban. He had been director of one of the leading German "movement schools."

Three special cultural evenings were arranged for at­tendees at the Gymnaestrada. The Germans, the Swiss and the Scandinavians each had a program of nationalistic danc­ing and choice displays typifying their special gymnastic activity. We might see some of the same kinds of things at a " Polish-American" wedding, or perhaps, at a convention of the Sons of Italy.

How does one even attempt to make an assessment of a Gymnaestrada? What, in fact, does gymnastics mean to you? The Gymnaestrada represents free expression in gymnastics. To the founders it was a plastic concept, a thing that would change and grow as movement and life themselves progress. Does your gymnastic mind have a place for swimming, bas­ketball or a clown act? All of these activities were a part of the scene at Basel. If you doubt for a minute that such things should be incorporated in a gymnastic fest ival, you cannot

*"Gym nasti kbund" identified movement people in Ge rmany and sepa rated them from the Turners.

Cathy Rigby performing at "Night of Stars"

-8- Balance Beam performers at "Night of Stars"

appreciate that deeper, unsung meaning which pervades the Gymnaestrada mind. Even an attitude expressed as, "I don't call this gymnastics!" evokes the question, "What then do you mean by gymnastics?" At least one Canadian, Jack Char­teris, has attempted his definition in a recent book, entitled This Is Gymnastics (Stipes Publishing Co., Champaign, III. -$6.90). A Gymnaestrada calls upon each interested party to define the term, to express it to others and by sharing view­points, carryon the tradition established by the F.I.G. and its Gymnaestrada founding father, Enric Sommer.

The assistant to the director of the U.S.G.F., Mrs. Jackie Uphues, was impressed by the "sans medals" spirit of the international festival .. . "How can so many people gather to­gether just to enjoy gymnastic work?" Her expression of amazement at this mass participation was shared by all of us who had not previously had the opportunity to view this kind of spectacle. Mrs. Uphues believes that within ten years Gymnastique Moderne will be very popular with our own girls and women. She was impressed with the gymnastic modern work of the Czechs (as were we all) and the single perfor­mances of the world's champions in this relatively new com­petitive form, the Bulgarian girls. (Some photographs of the Bulgarians are found in our scrapbook in this edition.)

She commented further that she believes Gymnastique Modern to be a natural competitive form for girls in Modern Dance and that since there is a minimum of strength required, more girls might be attracted to this completely feminine sport. A case in point ... Mary Prestidge, daughter of our good friends, Jim and Pauline Prestidge, who direct the Lady­well Gymnastic Center in London, has always been interested in dance, although she has had training for gymnastics as well. During the tour following the Gymnaestrada she per­formed a delightful modern dance number at the National Recreation Center in Crystal Palace, London, during one of the SCAT performances in England.

It is safe to say that Gymnaestrada activity as we know it today has a ratio of two females for every male participant. Perhaps this is due to the larger number of women who par­ticipate in rhythmic gymnastics or because there are a greater

.g.

Ready-Set-Go

number of private schools devoted to rhythmic gymnastics for girls and women. It was especially appropriate therefore that a special exhibition was organized and entitled "Women in Sport." One hall was completely devoted to art work, statues and mannequin displays depicting the role of women in sports through the ages. We will devote some of our pages to a more thorough treatment of this remarkable display in a future edi­tion and include in our scrapbook here just a few photo­graphs.

An Austrian said it best .. . "I've seen too much yet not enough!" If you plan, even at this ea rly date, to be a part of Gymnaestrada VI (rumored to be Essen, Germany), you will not be disappointed if you remotely identify with the gymnas­tic world or the words of F.I.G. President Arthur Gander ....

"For the fifth time, we shall be having the pleasure of experiencing this attractive manifestation created in 1953. We hope that, once again, it will prove that gymnastics are a physical and moral means of education, even without prizes and medals - and this in spite of the hectic life we lead to­day, constantly seeking to break records."

Our experience in Basel, making new friends, re­newing old acquaintanceships cannot adequately be de­scribed in words or in pictures for that matter. You are bound by the particular biases of this reporter and his meagre selections. To fully appreciate a Gymnaestrada, you must become a part of it. As we receive news of spe­cial periodicals and reports we will list them for you in the next edition. Two periodicals you might like to have are:

SC HWEIZER ILLUSTRI ERTE Nr .. 28, 7 Juli 1969. Write for information on obtaining a copy of this issue contain· ing many color phatos to 5.1. - Ringler & Co. AG, 4800 Zafingen, Switzerland.

DEUTSCHES TURNEN 17 Juli 1969, Heft 1 5. Seven separate reports, including "Cathy - der Liebling" (Darling Cathy) written by our friend, Joseph Gahler, Ed. of Olympische Turnkunst, and two excellent photographs are found in this issue. Write to D. T., Pohl-Druckerei und Verlagsanstalt Otto Pohl, 31 Celie, Postfach 103.

5 ·1 0·

A GYMNAESTRADA SCRAPBOOK

Even the flag outside the Rundhof of the Mustermesse danced in anticipation of the festival's opening at the St. Jakob Stadium (Figs. 1 & 2). Inside one of the halls a group of French girls were practicing with a very unusual piece of hand apparatus .. . a hoop that could come apart to form interest­ing new shapes such as loops and spirals (Figs. 3 & 4).

In the days preceding the opening ceremonies we took time to see the exhibition, ''Women in Sport." Having passed a ''White Maiden" (Fig. 5) we entered the center of the museum in Hall 8 where we contrasted the equestrienne (Fig. 7) with her gymnastic counterpart of years ago. The wooden horse in Fig. 6 might be traced back as far as Nurenburg in 1713 or to ones of later vintage used by Vieth in the late seventeen hundreds.

The Swiss had prepared a masterpiece of organization for the 5th Gymnaestrada. Even the trip across town to St. Jakob's Stadium seemed effortless, and many of us were amazed at the way the stadium was emptied. The host of peo­ple, some 20,000, just seemed to disappear for the feeding

of 10,000 and more at a single time, and with uncommon speed considering the enormity of the operation, gave the im­pression that the Swiss in Basel were ready .. . and then some.

The march of nations into St. Jakob was preceded bv the heralds who performed their regal duties os the symbolic flag of the Gymnaestrada was carried in. The gymnast's march was alphabetical (French) and South Africa (Afrique du Sud), having weathered through a Soviet objection to their partici­pation, pa ssed through the "Marathon Gate." We were im­pressed with the rich green color of the blazers worn by the South Africans (Fig. 8). An equally impressive West German delegation followed, consisting of 28 separate groups (Ger­man Flag Bearer - Fig. 9; German Girls - Fig. 10, and Ger­man Boys - Fig. 11).

A Brazilian girl (Fig. 12) moving her country's flag in a snappy "Figure 8" gave a hint of the quality she and her ten rhythmic sisters would display in their performances later in the week. These girls produced with their leader, Ilona Peuker, one of the most popular demonstrations. We include a few photographs of their work later in the scrapbook.

The Danes marched in headed by girls in folk costumes (Fig. 13). Some Danish girls waved (Fig. 14), and as they lined up later on on the field, they inspired the special treatment of a photo called "Danish Black and White."

The delegation of the United States followed. We could see the SCATS and members of the Gymnaestrada Tour who followed them. Kerry Bartlett smiled (Fig. 15) as she passed with "Old Glory." The Bear of California (Fig. 16) was right ot home in Basel since it is so symbolic in Europe. (For example, Bern, Switzerland, or Berlin both named in honor of the bear.) John Cress , well-known high school coach from Illinois , watched as the British delegation marched past (Fig. 17). Closest to John is Ray Taylor, secretary of the British Ama­teur Gymnastic Association. He didn't know it then, but weeks later in London Mr. Taylor would present him with the official pennant of BAGA that he would carry back for the Illinois High School Gymnastic Coaches Association:

Sweden, with groups in a number of age brackets and styles of dress, entered. Both youth and persistence may be seen in the Swedish standard-bearers in Fig. 18. Some marched in "jump suits" (Fig. 19); some paraded in a group of 500 "old-timers" (Fig. 20) while the remainder presented themselves in more conventional gymnastic apparel (Figs. 21 & 22). The Norwegians appeared with a similar number of marchers and heading their group was a trio of darlings who

8 9

11

·11 ·

16 '

13

17

14

20

18 15 21 22

·12·

23 were photographed everywhere they went (Fig . 23). Once the Yugoslavs were on the field the marching was over, and the gymnasts stood at attention for the raising of the Gymnae­strada banner and following this the Swiss national anthem. A portion of what we saw from the very top section of St. Jakob is found in Fig. 24. Standing before this group of thou­sands were the standard-bearers from all of the countries representatives from 27 nations.

Having left the stadium's grounds the Gymnaestrada participants retired to watch performances of the Swiss Gym­nastic Federation. Swiss men showed coordinated, rhythmic work on the side horse and parallel bars. A touch of folklore was added by a group of girls who performed a round dance. Five hundred girls from Ticino performed to the music of Tchaikowski and Suppe. Then as the grand finale 1,500 girls and women of the Swiss Women's Gymnastic Association under the direction of Nelly Buser produced patterns of gym­nastics on the soccer field . We have reserved a page of our scrapbook for this wonderful gymnastic evening with the Swiss. We looked forward eagerly to the beginning of the demonstrations which began the next morning, July 3, at the Mustermesse.

24

·13·

28

Iv

f

·14·

26 27

n w At this point it is necessary to delimit a bit much as we

hate to do so. Naturally, certain things were particularly at­tractive to this reporter, and so some excellent work, I'm sure, was either missed or neglected. Even with the halls being close together (see map) as they were in Basel, an ab­solute necessity for a successfu l Gymnaestrada, it was still possible to miss a thing or two. Each demonstration was scheduled twice, and some, such as the best of the rhythmic girls' schools and the best of Swiss, German and Nordic eve­nings, were given an additional time period on the closing day.

The scene outside the Mustermesse complex is shown in Figures 25, 26 and 27. Inside the "Festwirtschaft" one passed through an open courtyard (Fig. 28 & 29) to the dining area with its pennants and people (Fig. 30). The next four days were filled with action in all the halls from nine in the morning until six in the evening.

If the Gymnaestrada will survive as an international festival it will be in no small way related to the interest of many countries in providing sound physical education for its youth. When does this begin? German mothers showed how preschool gymnastics might be carried on with their own children. We found one such group resting after their dem­onstration. (Fig. 31) Another group of slightly older children,

31

32

with hoops held ready, waited intently (Fig. 32) and then performed a circuit of interesting activities. (Fig. 33) Having completed their work we watched a little "clapper" applaud their efforts in the rhythmic style of the Continent. (Fig. 34) I think whatever might be said about children on gymnastics is adequately displayed pictorially by a little Norwegian girl and a group of Yugoslavian boys. (Figs. 35 & 36) (We will describe the unique ladders used by the Yugoslav boys in the future in the Modern Gymnast because of their uniqueness and the creative ways they might be used.)

The creative use of another unusual piece of apparatus was demonstrated by Yugoslav girls. Entitled "Composition at a Round Table," (in Fig. 37 a table 4 meters in diameter is made ready for the girls) the girls posed on and around the table; jumped from it and crawled over and around it showing its utility. As we looked on we thought that in the absence of such a table, some of this work might be done with a trampo­line. (See Figs. 38-41 )

The predominance of girls and women at the Gym­naestrada might be the the result of an increased use of rhythmics and what we now call Gymnastique Modern. Quite a few demonstrations had an aesthetic or artistic appeal. The best we saw in this category were the Bulgarian girls. There was some objection that they did not perform as a group but programs were marked by many people in a special way so as to remind them of this outstanding group of indi-

37

15·

34 35

vidual , competitive routines in Gymnastique Modern. Several of the girls were also asked to perform in the program known as "The Night of the World's Best." No one was disappointed. We have devoted one page of our scrapbook to the Bul­gariennes.

40 41

GYMNASTIQUE MODERNE.

Gymnastique Maderne performances by the outstanding Bulgarian team

42

45 "A ballet fantasia or gymnastics" was the question

posed by many of the press representatives who saw Per­formance # 144a of Czechoslovakia. (There were 250+ news­papermen and journalists in BaseL) The girls moved per­fectly to impressionistic music. Graceful scales and lunges (Figs. 42 & 43) combined with dynamic leaps (Fig. 44) were rewarded with enthusiastic applause. Harmony, grace and charm under lights describe the famous, Swedish "Malmo Girls." (Figs. 45 & 46) Their exercises were swinging and elastic, rhythmically perfect. well executed and original. A group of eight Norwegian girls outfitted in beautiful, white leotards set off by a light blue " V" (Fig. 47) performed under

43 the animated Gymnaestrada symbol. The Norwegians showed

excellent taste in the selection of uniforms and dress as did many other groups including our own SCATS. We will encour­age " Bud" Marquette to have his girls pose for a gymnastic fashion show in a future issue.

Balls, ropes and hoops are common at a Gymnaestrada because they are the kinds of hand apparatus which have commonly been associated with rhythmic gymnastics and its competitive form Gymnastique Modern. Rhythm bands con­sisting of drums and other percussive instruments were used by the Argentine girls. (See Fig . 48 in which a girl from Argentina poses with her drum.) Unusual hand apparatus was employed by the Brazilian girls (see Figs. 49 & 50) bringing a special touch of Brazil to Basel. Their demonstration was

·19·

55

very popular and many people were disappointed that they were not given an apportunity to repeat on the final day. There were 149 groups performing at the Gymnaestrada so it is quite understandable that thi s feeling applied to other groups as well - including our own SCATS. Wearing black leotards set off by white ''V'' necked bibs forming a turtle­neck at the top, we see in Figures 50-54 the Brazilian girls as they performed in HailS. The music was typical of South America and the use of their special hand apparatus, espe­cially the bells, made listening as enjoyable as watching. Scotti sh girls (Fig. 55) also made good use of Highland music during their demonstration; if only they had worn plaid leotards!

56

It was standing room only on Thursday and Saturday for the SCATS' performance in Hall 7. The spectators had already had a "sneak prevue" of the Southern California Acro Team at their practice sessions and word spread quickly about a special dril l which was one of the most talked about Gymnaestrada presentations. Two th ings in particular were eagerly awaited . .. the tumbling drill at the end of the per­formance and the synchronized uneven bar routines featuring individual optionals by some of the girls including "Turn­kuken," Cathy Rigby. In the tumblinq drill, sixteen of the better SCAT tumblers performed difficult work such as aerial cartwheels and side-by-side r·ound-off, flip flops. But most impressive was the finale in which all sixteen converged on the central portion of the area and performed dove rolls in many directions and at several levels. It seemed as though the girls must certainly co"llide and yet they emerged intact to the amazement and joy of the crowd. (Fig. 56 & 57) (Selected photographs of the SCATS will be found in Figs. 58-61 .)

·20·

57

62

On the Fourth of July the SCATS had a day off. We started early though to celebrate Independence Day as the SCATS were led by fifer A. B. Frederick on the way to breakfast at the Mustermesse. We entered the great dining hall singing "Yankee Doodle" and "California, Here I Come." (See Fig. 62) Close on the heels of the piper was Bud Marquette, coach of the SCATS and a leading figure in American gymnastics. In addition to his current batch of SCATS, the history of this man's unselfish contributions to a host of gymnasts, many of whom have represented the United States in the Olympics, must be one of the most impressive in the short period of time gymnastics for women have been developing in our country. He is respected as a coach on the international level. And he's tough! The bear on the flag of the great State of California (see Fig. 64) just as well reflects a bit af "Bud's" personal ity. He believes in himself and his girls and will probably, one day, bring an Olympic gymnastic medal to hanq on the walls of the Queen Marv in Lonq Beach. As he

64 65 lay awake in the girl's high school in Basel (Madchenober­schule) where the Americans and Czechs were housed, even at 2AM, he was making silent plans for Munich in '72. (Fig. 65)

Thus far we have not said much about apparatus. Except for individual performances of the "World's Best" at the three times assigned and certain few in the Halls during the week, the Gymnaestrada produced more group-type apparatus work. Here, too, the objective was to show individuals who work towards a common group goal. A good example was the German group of twelve trampolinists who did an ex­cellent bit of simultaneous somersaulting on the bouncing beds. (See Fig. 66) Another excellent show, one paralleling the creativity of the Yugoslavs, was the Czech group which performed on and around four balance beams. (Fig. 67) Three arrangements af the four beams were utilized and many ideas for classwork were stashed away by gymnastic teach­ers. The German "Gymwheelers," boys and girls, performed to music on their Roenrads. (Figs. 68 and 69) Those of us who

saw this work for the first time were fascinated at the wide variety of movements on this unusual apparatus.

As an English girl dove to a high swing on the high rail of a set of unevens (Fig. 70) under the watchful eye of her leader we are also reminded of another use of apparatus at the Gymnaestrada. Many of the groups arranged different kinds of apparatus on the floor. Performers then showed interesting ways these combinations could be traversed. The Swiss under direction of the internationally famous Swiss coach, Jack Gunthard, combined mini-tramp with horizontal bar. Often there were two men on the bar simultaneously. It looked like fun and judging from the content of many foreign texts we might conclude that combining apparatus for fun often results in highly motivated students or it can be a useful break for those who are competitors.

A Gymnaestrada is a total experience in gymnastics. Even the symbolic flag seemed to stimulate movements. (Figs. 71-73) The last, great thrill was reserved for the Swiss. At the closing ceremony came the announcement that Meta Antenen, a twenty-year-old Swiss Pentathlon athlete, had broken the World's distaff record in that event by 23 points, amassing a total of 5046. The Swiss certainly deserved something nice to happen to them since they had made the Gymnaestrada such a gala event for their foreign visitors. They turned off the rain for the entire week and even supplied us with warm sunshine. We were somewhat sad when it all ended and our feelings seemed to be shared even by the weather for once again there was rain in Basel. The 5th Gymnaestrada had closed but we came away with the knowledge and a feeling that what we had seen, gymnastics without medals, is gymnastics.

71

70

·n 72 73

.----~~ .. ,. ...... ~~ ~. ~~ .......

;?'i'~\: '! • Essen .?

"1.1

Ten years later thousands of gymnasts returned to Stock­holm for an international display. The physical and cultural aspects af the 1 949 meeting were greatly successful , but the Lingiad was a financial tragedy. A personal tragedy alsa marked the occasion when, unable ta bear up to the situation created by a lack of funds, the organizing secretary took his awn life. In an attempt to preserve much of the good result­ing from international meetings of this kind, the administra­tive head of the F.I.G., Charles Thoeni and his technical chief, Enric Sommer, shortly thereafter made a thorough study of the problems inherent in such gatherings and decided to en­courage the F.I.G. to consider similar international meetings in the future .

.II Vie t'l11.Q.

let l.S

In 1950, Basel was the site of an International F.I.G. E R

riiiJi!-~~~'~'~:!:iiii' Congress preceding the World Gymnastic Championships. The federations of Holland and Jugoslavia proposed that an international meeting be organized using the Lingiad for a model. The congress was in agreement that Holland would be responsible br preparing the first site for this new F.I.G. venture. Holland was especially appropriate since Enric Som­mer was then head of the technical committees of both the

A BRIEF HISTORY OF THE GYMNAESTRADA

The concept of an international meeting of gymnasts for the primary purpose of displaying current practice in gym­nastics, physical education and physical culture may be traced to Stockholm. In 1939 a century had passed since the death of Per Henrik Ling, an educator who was the acknowl­edged "Father of Swedish gymnastics." Teachers of the Ling system of gymnastics could be found throughout the world. Most of them had their training at the Royal Institute of Gym­nastics in Stockholm so it was not surprising that an interna­tional, commemorative meeting should be arranged. It was immensely successful. Those present committed themselves to future demonstrations which would serve the gymnastic community by the dissemination of knowledge of modern methods practiced in each of the countries represented.

·23·

• ZQ.%l"'etr ICfS"7

F.I.G. and the gymnastic federation of his native Holland. Dur­ing the fifth Gymnaestrada in Basel, Mr. Sommer discussed the origin of the term, "gymnaestrada":

"On a sea rch for a name for this world gymnastic festi­val, I took the first half of the Dutch word "GYMNAstiek." And, because I was of the opinion that such gymnastic meetings are to help to bring the gymnastic to a higher level, an "ESTRADA," the word " GYMNAESTRADA" was created. Some people have changed the pronunciation by omission of the "E" in the new word (hence "strada" or street or way). With such an omission the translation becomes " The Way of Gymnastics," which is not wrong either." Therefore in 1953, Rotterdam became the first city to

host a Gymnaestrada. It had recovered from its devastation of the war and now had a principal artery permitting speeds of 45 miles per hour in the center of town making for con-

· " "

venient transportation to the various sites. Even in 1953 observers from the Swiss Gymnastic Federation could begin to respect some of the problems of detail and organization which would fall wholly into their hands 1 6 years later.

The second Gymnaestrada was awarded to Yugoslavia. In spite of meagre participation by countries of the North and West due to political discord in Hungary. (This was 1957, a year after the Melbourn Olympiad during which many Hun­garians defected to the United States and other countries.) Eastern-bloc countries came to Zagreb in droves, and the F.I.G. could decla re that the Gymnaestrada was, overall , a success.

In 1961 the industrial center, Stuttgart, became host for the third Gymnaestrada. This was a significant year for gym­nastics in Germany since it marked the 1 50th anniversary of the founding of the Turnplatz in the Hasenheide by Turnvater Jahn in 1811 . Organization for the event was in the best Ger­man tradition and paralleled that of the 1936 Berlin Olym­piad. The Nordic influence in gymnastics was beginning to give way to a more fluid and vital gymnastic form. The world of gymnastics was beginning to see some value in adopting bits and pieces of all sorts of gymnastic systems rather than strictly adhering to the stubborn, nationalistic forms of the past. The Germans especially expanded movement dynamics in the form of exercises and demonstrations showing tech­niques of rela xation, rhythm, music and percussion accom­paniment for gymnastics. One hundred thousand spectators witnessed the closing ceremony in the Neckar Stadium which testified to the strong influence of Gymnaestrada work.

Four years later the fourth Gymnaestrada convened in Vienna. The F.I.G. could once again declare that gymnastics without medals solidifies the objective of gymnastics for all. The number of participants, reportedly 15,000, more than doubled the number who had demonstrated in Stuttgart. But more than size and numbers, the spirit of gymnastics in its purest form saddened some Americans attending who knew that such a gathering for the expressed purpose of stimu­lating new ideas and gymnastics for its own sake would be impossible to organize in their own country.*';'

·24·

The Gymnaestrada committee learned at least one les­son from Vienna; that future · sites for the Gymnaestrada should be selected so as to provide maximum opportunities for observers to see most of the presentations and not be confronted with the frustration of impo~sible planning to seek out demonstrations in every corner of a great city, as was necessary in Vienna. And so they came to Basel and the Mustermesse in 1969. Some of what took place is recorded in this issue pictorially and with a few words. In a single phrase the fifth Gymnaestrada could be described as a masterpiece of convenience and organization. The Swiss Federation of Gymnastics has provided, in both facility and hospitality, the model for the Gymnaestrada of the future.

' Liberal amounts of material fo r th is paper have been t ranslated from Education Phy· sique , the official publ icat ion of the Swiss Women's Associat ion of Gymnastics and per· sonal interviews with key federat ion personnel.

(", "' See report by Jock Beckner - Modern Gymnast, Sept.-Oct. 1965, pp. 14-25.) The scope of Vienno is also recorded in the first issue of Mille. G.

MLLE G FRIENDS AT THE GYMNAESTRADA: Above: Paul Leenheer (Holland), (?), Leo Staal (Holland) and A. Bruce Frederick, - USGF Directors Frank Bare and Jackie Uphues; Lower Left : Jim Prestidge (Brit ish Gymnast Editor), Photographer Alan Burrows (London), levan Parry and John Atki nson (English Schools Gymnastic Association)

·25·

MLLE G SCOREBOARD COPA de LAS AMERICAS

The first Cup of the Americas meet was held in Mexico Ci ty June 12-1 5, 1969, with teams entered from Ca nada, Cuba, Mexico and the Uni ted States. The members of the United States women's team were Diane Boli n, Janet Boyd, Cleo Ca rver, Linda Metheny, Joyce Tanac, Lorna Woodard, and coach Donna Schaenzer.

All Around

1. Lindo Metheny, USA. 36.75 4. Jennlter Diachun, Canada 35.05 2. Joyce Tanac, U.S.A. 36.02 5. Sondra Hartley, Canada 35.00 3. Jeannette Boyd, USA. 35.25 6. Nancy Aldama, Cuba 34.95

Ba lance Beam Vaultin2 1. Joyce Tanac, U.S.A. 1 B.70 1. Jennifer Diochun, Canada 18.30 2. Zulemo Bregado, Cuba 18.15 2. Joyce Tonoc, U.S.A. 17.72 3. Lindo Metheny, USA. 17.70 3. Glenna Sebastyn, Canado 17.67 4. Jeonnette Boyd, U.S.A. 17.45 4. Lindo Metheny, U.S.A. 17.50 4. Tereso MocDonell, Canoda 17.45 ~. Jeannette Boyd, U.S.A. 17.25 5. Naney Aldama, Cuba 16.90 6. Sondra Hartley, Canada 17.22

Floor Ex erc ise Unevens 1. Lindo Metheny, U.S.A. 18.55 1. Lindo Metheny, U.S.A. 18.70 2. Zulema Bregodo, Cuba 18.30 2. Joyce Tonae, U.S.A. 18.30 2. Naney Aldoma, Cuba 18.30 3. Jeonnette Boyd, U.S.A. 18.20 3. Jeannette Boyd, U.S.A. 17.95 4. Jennifer Diochun, Canada 17.95 4. Joyce Tanae, U.S.A. 17.77 5. Mirian Villocian, Cuba 17.70 5. Sondra Hartley, Canada 17.70 6. Sondra Hart ley, Canada 17.05

SANTA MO NICA GYM FEST: Scenes from Annua l Labor Day Weekend SM Gymfest Women's Competition which had a good tu rnout, with Miss Stephanie Stromer the top all arou nd award wi nner (p ictured doing splits on Ba lance Beam) and Cathy Rigby on hand to give a crowd pleasing Fl oor-Ex and Uneven Bar demonstra tion.

MLLE G NAMES 'N NEWS SPECIAL COURSE

The Panzer School of Physical Education and Hygiene of Montclair State College offered a special course in the German approach to physical education thi s summer. It was taught by Irma Nikolai and Anneliese Schmolke, both pro­fessional associates of Liselott Diem of the Deutsch Sporthoch sch ule in Cologne. The course offered a rare opportuni ty for physical educators to get new ideas, methods and techniques (all part of a continuing program at Panzer to present different approaches to physical education . . . two years ago a teacher from Denmark spent a semester at the colleqe giving instruction in Danish methods.) The course carried a credit of two semester hours covering five principal areas of study: 1) basic and progressive methods in gymnastics with and without apparotus for elementary and high school level; 2) gymnas­tics in partner and group work; 3) training in fundamental rhythmical move­ments; 4) individual creative work, and 5) folk dancing. While the course was designed primarily for physical education teachers and those preparing to teach in this field, classroom teachers were also encou raged to participate. The visit by the two German teachers was the outgrowth of a trip Dr. Hazel Wacker, director of the Women 's Division of Panzer, made to Cologne in 1965 to attend the International Congress on Physical Education at the Sport­hochschule. She was impressed by the methods used there, which, she ob­served as being more pupil -centered than those in this country, affording more freedom and more opportunity for the student to discover things for himself. Professor Diem, who is president of the International Congress, is a recognized authority on the German method and the author of several books, including the well -known "Who Can?" a series of cha llenges for chi ldren. A former Olympic team member and gymnastics champion, Professor Nikolai ha s been at the Sporthochschule since 1947. She specializes in ba sic funda ­mentals and exercises in gymnastics and tumbling for all levels of skill. Pro­fessor Schmolke has also been at the Sporthochschule since 1947 and has headed its dance department for most of that time. She specia li zes in dances for children and folk dances and has written a number of books and articles in this field .

Mrs. Irma Nikolai of the Deutsche Sportochschule, Cologne, Ger­many, gives instruction to three of the more than 60 participants in the Physical Education Around the World workshop at Montclair State College, Upper Montclair, N.J., in July. Her students are, left to right, Miss Gretchen Sunderland of Glen Rock, N.J.; Miss Janet Hicks of East Oranoe, N.J.: ond Mi ss Susan Umstead of White Plains, N.Y. Mrs. Nikolai directed the course with Mrs. Anneliese Schmolke, also of the Sporthocn­schule. (Photo by Gene Washnik)

-27-

TEXAS MLLE G: Kathy Moore, 16-year-old 1969 Texas State High School All Around Champion.

INTERNATIONAL GYMNASTICS LEARNING CENTER in New Haven Headed by Muriel Grossfeld, Don Tonry and Abie Grossfeld, is a nationally qualified staff selected to provide the best instruction at each ability level. Included are olympians, national cham­pions and top coaches to provide inspirational demonstrations as well as the very best in coaching,

ENROLLMENT WILL BE LIMITED SO REGISTER IMMEDIATELY!

J{elen ~ Corner By Helen Sjursen

BACK STRADDLE·UNEVENS If all you beginners would concentrate on developing good leg form,

you'd be surprised how quickly you could move on to the intermediate class. If you are anxious to learn a back straddle, but are too afraid to start, build up your confidence by taking it in stages, assuming yQU have use of low parallettes. Place the parallettes in front of the low bar so that the unevens low bar will become the high bar and the one rail of the parallette will become the low bar as shown in Fig. 1.

You will notice that the spread . between the parallette rail and the unevens rail, now the high bar, will be greater than the regulation spread of the uneven bars. The greater spread will be to your advantage when practicing the back straddle since you will have to spring harder to pass your feet over the high bar. If successfully learned at this low level, straddling over the uneven high bar will be easier.

Fig. 2·3

Stand on the low bar, and, of course, with feet together, legs straight and together (always remember form), left arm extended forward, right arm rearward in an under grip on the .high bar . (Place palm of right hand on top of high bar and close fingers). Now bend knees slightly in preparation for the spring upward and backward. A spotter should stand on the floor in back of the high bar facing the back of the gymnast.

Fig. 4 Spring off both feet directing the tape-off upward and rearward

straddling legs wide and raising legs to a straddle "L" position. On the take-off right arm momentarily straightens to help raise body while left arm moves downward, palm down, fingers curled in readiness for the contact with high bar. As body passes over bar, the right hand grip is released and joins left hand to grip high bar between thighs in a regular grip. As the gymnast jumps to the back straddle, the spotter

·28·

/ Fig. 4

can reach over the high bar to help pull ·the gymnast over the bar. On a first attempt most gymnasts will actually sit on the high bar with straddled legs, grip between thighs, and fall back to a bent hang. To avoid this, more stress should be placed on a take-off high enough to clear the bar, and a faster and farther rear movement of the upper body. (After take-off, when assuming the straddle "L" position, tilt upper body slightly forward and look for high bar. This will eliminate any possibility of a gymnast starting a back summy over the high bar.)

If, 'after the first few. tries, you still find yourself sitting on the high bar, concentrate on springing from the low bar, passing the FEET over the high bar, and dropping them to the floor at a spot where your back spotter is standing. (Disregard any poor form on landing, since the high bar is not at its regulation height.) The "low practice" of the back straddle builds confidence and aids in learning to pass the feet over the high bar without touching the legs or feet.

If, after take-off, you have sufficient rear movement of the upper body, but find that your feet graze the high bar in passing, then on take-off you will have to raise the legs still higher when going into the straddle "L" position. Raise from the hips, do not bend the legs, and use your stomach muscles to help you do so.

Practice at this lower level until you are sure of your take-off and ability to grip the high bar with both hands, feets clearing bar. When trying it on the regular uneven high bar, you will be amazed at the ease with which you will pass over the high bar, since you were prac­ticing with a wider spread forcing you to develop a stronger spring.

An overhead rig is ideal for use in spotting skills such as the back straddle when the uneven rails are at the regulation heights. Otherwise spotters should stand between the high and low bars and also on the outside of the high bar facing the back of the gymnast as she straddles.

NOW AVAILABLE WOMEN'S GYMNASTIC JUDGES CORRESPONDENCE COURSE

The "Women's Gymnastic Judges Carrespondence Course", based on the 1968 official FIG Women's Cade af Points, has been issued to help ease your way to learning the art of judging. The descriptions and deductions for errors, coming out of the FIG courses in Rome, Canada and USA are all included in this course, along with those listed in the Code of Points. There are 60 deductions listed under the uneven bars event, 50 under the floor exercise event,S 7 under the balance beam event and 46 under the vaulting event. learn the FIG system of evaluating an exercise. Use this course for an advance preparation for an official examination in your area, or use to train judges in your area. Coaches may refer to this course to learn what errors will draw a heavier penalty, which in turn, will imprave her caaching. New coaches can use this course as a means ta educate themselves on the requirements af all events and can also improve her coaching by knowing what errors the judges will be looking for, since the description of the errors are all listed. Gymnasts, who have na coaches, can also use the course to learn the various errors and attempt to correct those she is in the habit of doing. Included with the course is a test for self examination, on the honor system. Answers are also included for self grading. This course is an excellent reference for judges, prospective judges, coaches and gymnasts. Cost $3.18 (includes postage) - mimeographed.

ORDER FROM: HELEN SJURSEN 46 Popla r Place Fanwood, N.J. 07023

leners

MED ROOM -Dear Glenn:

I was del ighted ta see that Milan Med was able to have the big showing he was looking forward to. Your coverage, again, was great.

As you know, I have a small collection of Milan Med's pastels. Just re­cently, we moved to a larger apartment, which means I can use one room to hang Milan Med's work. As a matter of fact, we now say we have a bedroom ond a "med" room.

Norma B. Zabka West New York, New Jersey

Deor Sir: I am most interested in color reproductions "by Med." I think they are

super.

Deor Mr. Sundby:

Miss J. C. Abrahams South Africa

I am writing to let you know that we are very interested in possible re-praductions of Mr. Milan Med's paintings on art in gymnastics.

Dear Mademoiselle Gymnost:

Pauline Tebbit Librarion Physical Education Association of Great Britain and Northern Ireland

Yes, I would be interested in color reproductions by Med.

Dear Mr. Sundby:

Renee Hendershott Lakewood, Ohio

Yes, I would be interested in large reproductions of Mr. Med's paintings.

Dear Editor:

Mrs. M. DeMarco Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

Of course, Med reproductions would be welcome. The joy of gymnastics is instantly savored upon viewing one.

Dear Mr. Sundby:

Mrs. Diane Massad Warrensville Heights, Ohio

Please let me know if color reproductions "by Med" become avoilable. They're beautiful, and I'd most certainly be interested in ordering some. Hope you can arronge for such reproductions.

Mademoiselle Gymnast:

Sondra S. Mull Maryville, Missouri

I would be interested in a color reproduction "by Med" as this will help to create interest in the art of acrabotics and gymnostics.

Jan Bellman Gym-Dandy Studio Davenport, lowo

ED: Mile G readers' response has been enthusiastic from all corners. We hope to have reproductions available soon. Watch future editions for announcement.

"med " room

THANKS Dear Editor:

Thank you so much for the wonderful coverage you so graciously pro­vided in the March-April issue of your magazine of our National Collegiate Chompionships. Needless to say, we were quite pleased with the mechanics of the meet along with the final results. We thought the cover of that issue was great also.

Again, our deepest thanks and appreciation for all you continue to do for the sport of women's gymnostics.

-29-

Mimi Murray Women's Gymnastic Coach Springfield College, Massachusetts

DECEMBER 26, 27, 28, 29 At Champaign, Illinois

WOMEN'S OLYMPIC DEVELOPMENT WORKSHOP Dick Mulvihill, Director with Olympic member staff: Linda Metheny and Diane Bolin

Personalized instruction by staff

Complete review and construction of optional routines Long sessions on development of World Games and Olympic Compulsories Individual apparatus: 12 beams, 6 bars, FX pads,

tumbling and vaulting areas, spotting mechanics and crash pads.

5000 feet of the latest films of the Pre-World Games

Limited enrollment, 15 to 20 girls (who are interested in trying out for Olympic and World Game teams)

Every phase of Women's Gymnastics will be dis­cussed and demonstrated with the aim in develop­ing top contenders for our national team.

For further information write immediately to: Dick Mulvihill c/o McKinley YMCA 0;00 W. Church Street Champaign, Illinois Phone (217) 344-6516

fioOKSHELL==<--) -~I ( MLLE G Calendar J '--::-:BA-:-:ll-=ET::-::F~OR:-:G:::Y:=::MNC-:=ASTI CS Manual # 1 000 to accompany Class "C" record (Stepping Tones) ....... ... ........ . ... .. . .. .. $3.00 Manual # 1 OJ 0 to accompany Class "B" reconj I The following IS a bnef resume of events taking place In (Stepping Tones). .. . ........... . ........ . ...... $4.00 I the United States or othe(nations that concerns Amencan Special offer: Both manuals ......... .. ...... $5.00 gymnastics programs.

-Mil P(fSTERS: -- - - r Four color 20x24 uneven bar .. ......... .. .. $1.00 , October 17-18-19, 1969. Pre-World Championships for men

and women. Ljubjlana. Yugoslavia. Three-day event utiliz­ing world 's games compulsories. U.S.A. will send men's and women's teams.

USGF 1968 Women's OLYMPIC GYMNASTIC FILM

Just $10.00 for

200 ft. 8mm (black & white) The top routines of the In­dividual event Championships from the 1968 Olympic Games in Mexico City. ORDER FROM:

USGF Women's Olympic Film P.O. Box 771 Santa Monica, Ca. 90406

Giant 2'x3' World Cup Poster ....... .. .... .. $1 .00 I Gymnastics Moderne 16V2x23 ............. .50 i High Bar 16 V2x23 .... .... ... .... .. .. ... .. .... .50 II

Special offer , All fou'r posters suitable for framing ....... . ... $2.00

Order From:

SUNDBY PUBLICATIONS MG BOOKSHELF Box 171 Santa Monica, Ca. 90406

California residents add 5% sales tax

Shreveport Gymnastic Supply

Company P. O. Box 5374

Shreveport, La . 71105

Suppliers of

1968 World Trampoline Team

November 1-2, 1969. USGF Coaches Congress, Denver, November 8, 1969. United States Military Academy Gymnas­tic Cl inic, West Point, New York. For coaches and gym­nasts (men only) November 20 to Dec. 2, 1969. U.S.A. invited to send three women gymnasts, two competitors, and one Coach/Judge for the first Invi tational or Elite Women gymnasts ... To­kyo, Japan, U.S.A. wi ll take part if the event takes place .. . U.S.S. R., Germany, Japan, U.S.A. November 28·29, 1969. NEW ENGLAND CLINIC. U.S. Coast Guard Academy, New London, Conn. November 28-29. Midwest Open, Mt. Prospect, Illinois. November 28-29. Eastern Gymnastic Clinic, Abington, Penn· sylvania. _. December 5·6, 1969. Gymnastic Workshop for Men and Women, University of Missouri. December 13. Iowa Open Gymnastic Meet, U. of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa. December 25-31, 1969. National Gymnastic Clini c, Sarasota, Florida. December 26-31. Eastern Gymnast ic Clinic, Fort Lauderdale, Florida. December 26-31. California Winter Gymnastic Clinic, Berke­ley, Ca liforn ia. December 26·31. Western Gymnastic Clinic, Tucson, An­zona.

WHY WAIT FOR YOUR ORDER? December 26-31. Texas National Gymnastic Clinic, Corpus Christi, Texas.

Our ~tock items are shipped the day your order is receiv­ed . We stock most gymnastic clothing items and accessories.

FOR SALE: Used Nissen Uneven Bars (like new), Balance Beam , Trampoline (Pit) and other Gymnastic items . For information call (213) 782·0685 or send inquiry to Mile G. P .O. Box 777, Santa Monica ,Ca. 90406.

Send for ou r cata log

An extremely flexiable snug·fitting shoe with

white Tetron iersey upper. ' Provides excellent toe

point during competition. Rubber hemming assures

tight but comfortable wear even during the mosr v igor·

ous movements . Leather sole is slip.free and ,llows

good ventilat i on . Worn by many top international

competitors.

Sizes: 2 - 9 $2.00 pro ppd.

1968 MEXICO OLYMPIC FILMS

Super 8 - in color Complete winning and runner·up optional routines on all Olympic events. Taken at 24 fps and edited from 2000 feet of film taken from choice locations. Highly edu· cational. No rentals.

Men's - 400 . ft. .............. $32.00 Ppd. Women's - 400 ft. ........ $32.00 Ppd.

Order from:

r k r I 12200 SOUTH BERENOO AVENUE t-I'an t::nao LOSANGELES , CAlIFO~NIA 900 44

1968 OLYMPIC

PHOTOGRAPHS By

DON WILKINSON

Don Wilkinson whose photos appear in Mademoiselle Gymnast, , . . .. covered tl\.e Olympic Games photographicany in

color and black and white. He has produced a fully illustrated catalogue showing over 1,500 contact size black and white prints (with over 400 of Gymnastics). Also listed are the color transparencies taken. This catalogue, price $1.00 is now available from - DON WILKINSON, 1013 8th AVENUE, GREELEY, 90LORADO 80631.

ORDE R NOW "BALLET FOR GYMNASTICS" Five Dollars ($5.00) hy r;'Hf K"yu(//

Each Record #1000 Rar re ~"r1 lentn h('r( i ~n for Begin ners (With VI'I''')

:# 1010 Rure and lentn F.xercises for Intermedi ~te (wit h vnlCcj

:t: I O]() Floor herl ise Routines (Offici.1I Intcrn ~ r i() n ~1 Timing)

--------~--P. O. BOI 643304,

l.fAILING CHARGE ••• 2S¢ additional ~eeo~d.

lOI Angelel, Calilornia 90064

OM 1 ~eeo~d and 1 o¢ 6o~. eac.h Cru6. Re.6. add 5% Sa.icu Tqx.

welcome to the world

of .d new leas. • •

in gymnasium and physical education equipment

Schools look to American, the leader, for innovations in new equipment.

Why? Our record of firsts is unmatched ...• The company that developed the Junior All-American gymnasium apparatus, All-American Obstacle Course, and the acrylic systems of marking athletic fields .••• now presents . • ..

A first in the field with Stainless Steel Gymnastic Apparatus. Also . . .. the first really Portable Bleacher .. . THE TIP-AWAY.

For more information on the new look in gymnasium products, write to your full service company,

American-Athletic Equipment Co. ~ P. o. Box 111 Jefferson, Iowa 50129

'fItitm&ittflit ~mJW/· FOR THE LADIES

MADEMOISELLE' GYMNAST P. O. BOX 777 SANTA MONICA, CALIFORNIA - 90406

Please send me a Subscription

of MADEMOISELLE' GYMNAST

o l-Year @ $3.00 0 2-Years @ $5.00 o Foreign - $3.50 Per Year

o Please find $ . .. .. . . . for Gift subscriptions to be sent to the names enclosed.

.. ~ ·"U"

Name ............. .......... ... .... ...... .... .. ..... .... ..... .... ... ............ .. ........ ....... .

Address

Ciry· ...... .... ... ... .... .... ...... ..... ........ ....... .. .... ... .... ..... . Srare .. .... ..... ........ ..... ....... .... Zip ..... .. ....... .