Interview with Gianfranco Marzolla (ITA)
Gianfranco Marzolla (ITA) is the President of the Technical Committee for Men´s Artistic Gymnastics of the UEG. On the last week-end of this January, his Technical Committee met in Berlin, where the drawing of the Lots and subdivisions took place and the UEG-representatives had the opportunity to familiarise themselves with the location of the European Championships and the conditions on site.
Mr. Marzolla, after a few days in Berlin, what are your impressions of the preparations for the European Championships?
At the moment, I can say that all preparations are looking very good to me. For years now I have experienced events in Germany and have always found good work. I like that the people here are always very dedicated to the cause. And I have experienced an specifically committed atmosphere in the OC (Organising Committee) - that is very important!
We from the Technical Committee are expecting that we in Berlin are going to present an European Championships on a high athletic level.
As President of the TC, what is it that already pleases you?
There are different aspects: firstly, the 39 participating nations are a huge success and secondly, its the organisational issues. The general program is set, the Technical Committees have carried out the necessary preparations well. Most of all there are technical aspects that we have to prepare well.
What athletic importance does the European Championships in Berlin have?
In respect to the accomplishments, the European Gymnastics have decreased since the last European Championships. In regards to London in 2012, they have to get a good start in Berlin Berlin. Already in 2010 in Rotterdam, good positions were achieved which let us hope for a good perspective.
With the qualifications to the Olympic Games at the World Championships in Tokyo, Europe will present itself positively and will show that the achievements are going up again.
How do you rate the German female and male artistic gymnasts?
The number of participants in Berlin itself demonstrates that Europe is well prepared for gymnastics and the same goes for the German gymnastics. The German team has presented itself well in Rotterdam in 2010 with overall very good results. German gymnasts now have the advantage of preparing themselves in their home country.
Who are your favourites for the male and female titles respectively?
It is a singles competition so I cannot make a prediction. From year to year there are large differences between some of the gymnastic appliances and many very good artistic gymnasts. Often the difference between the scores is so minor - which of course is a good sign!
If you had to advertise the European Championships, what would you say?
Certainly the athletic aspects attract people to Berlin. Here you can find participating artistic gymnasts on a worldwide high level. Additionally, there is of course the wonderful city of Berlin. For 30 years I have been travelling all over the world - now I am here for the first time. Berlin is attractive all around, a great metropolis! Therefore one just has to come here!
