ESPN Article on the notoriously cruel Al Fong

[Ingymmom]

Anyone that has read "Little Girls in Pretty Boxes" has heard of Al Fong & his 2 gymnasts that died ... it took a lot but it sounds as if his philosophies have changed and for the bettter. He has created some elite greats - I am looking forward to hopefully seeing his very talented gymnast - Ivana Hong - in Beijing... this is a really good article, worth a read.

http://sports.espn.go.com/oly/news/story?id=3027224

[audra]

That is a great article, and it definitely makes me see him differently. It takes a lot for someone to admit they have screwed up and take a new approach to their life and work. The gymnastics world is not very forgiving though so it will always be a struggle for him.

[Ingymmom]

I LOVE the change in his perspective! It is great to see... it sounds like he and his business have and still are suffering though. I hope it all works out.

[Ingymmom]

Part 1 & 2 of an old Dateline story on Christy Henrich. Al Fong is interviewed.


Part 1:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Su9aBexwkr0

Part 2:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7PQn0jrwiUA

[I-Heart-Beam]

Wow thats quite scary- is that not Ivana Hong's coach? Someone told me 2 of his gymnasts died . I've never heard of that before.

This seems a little bit insensitive but what are the skills at 0.54 and 5.06 in first part? O.54 is almost like german giants on the low bar except in straddle and 5.06 is a transition move- are they still allowed? What would they score?