In preparation for the Olympic Games, Russia developed the “Olympic Hopes,†which consisted of young talented athletes throughout the country. At age 13, Yelena took 2nd place in the competition. This would be the beginning of Yelena’s numerous accolades. Throughout her years competing as a member of the Russian National Team, Yelena took home a number of championships. Yelena would eventually rack up over 30 medals and diplomas throughout her years participating in competitions.
When the time came for Yelena to retire, she knew she couldn’t successfully deprive herself of being connected with her sport. The only way to stay involved was to become a trainer, which is exactly what Yelena decided to do. So Yelena entered the Pedagogical Institute and within 4 years she was qualified to train rhythmic gymnastics.
In 1998, Yelena and her students were invited for the first time to Los Angeles to take part in American competitions. Because Yelena’s team did so well, Yelena was offered a job giving her the right to live and work in the United States. In 2003, The Hollywood Academy of Gymnastics was established with Yelena Chshukareva as the Head Director. The Hollywood Academy is now considered the number one rhythmic gymnastics school in California.
