Beijing 2008 - Russia, Italy hit forefront in Rhythmic Gymnastics group tourney

(BEIJING, December 5) -- The Russian team topped the first day's group qualifications of the 2007 Rhythmic Gymnastics International Invitational Tournament here on Wednesday.

Competing in the five ropes exercise, powerhouse Russia finished with 17.500 points, edging its traditional adversary Italy by 0.675 points. Belarus came in third with 16.700 points while Bulgaria and China shared the fourth position with 16.300 points.

According to the competition format, each group consists of six members with five performing per routine. They will compete in another exercise with three hoops and two pairs of clubs on Thursday. The top eight finishers in terms of the overall scores will qualify for the finals, which will be held Friday.