Yuliya Raskina-Hula Hoop Artist

Having acheived the highest levels of rhthymic gymnastics, Yuliya took the overall silver medal at the Sydney Olympics in 2000. From there she entered the world of circus art, also at the highest level, performing with Cirque du Soleil's 'Corteo' for two years before striking out on her own. Yuliya's latest effort is a beautiful hula hoop number set to fiery, authentic flamenco music. Yuliya was famous as a sportsmen for winning the hearts of spectators, and today as an artist, her flare and charm shine through more brightly than ever.

Born to Natalia Nikolaevna, a champion rhythmic gymnast of the Soviet Union, Yuliya had it in her genes to become a champion herself. At seven years old she began her training for a sport career that took her all the way to the top.

• 1995-Jnr European Championships, Prague, Chzech Republic- Silver medal.
• 1997-World Championships, Berlin, Germany- Silver medal.
• 1998-European Championships, Porto, Italy- Gold medal.
• 1999-World Championships, Osaka, Japan- Silver medal for team and individual overall, as well as for individual apparatus ball and ribbon.
• 2000-European Championships, Saragossa- Gold medal for ball, Silver medal for team and individual overall, as well as for individual apparatus ribbon.
• 2000-Olympic Games Sydney, Australia- Silver medal overall individual.