Inaugurated in 1960 in Siberia the impressive facilities include an enormous hall with two complete sets of apparatus for both Men's and Women's Artistic Gymnastics.

The centre is not only important to the development of gymnastics in the region but it provides a place for the Russian Gymnastics elite to train. Thus in preparation of the Beijing Olympic Games the Russian national Artistic Gymnastics team men and women will train in Leninsk - Kouznetsky starting next week.

Mariya Evgenievna Filatova RUS, who competed at the 1976 and 1980 Olympics as well as Valentin Mogilny RUS, 1989 World Champion on Pommel Horse, figure among the most prominent gymnasts ever to have practiced at the Leninsk - Kouznetsky training centre.

During his stay in Siberia Prof Bruno Grandi ITA was honoured by Mr Aman Tuleev RUS, governor of the Kouzbass region, who presented the President with the Faith amp; Good Will Award for his excellent contribution to the promoting of sports justice.