The elegant Valentin Victorovich Mogilny (USSR), who won more than a dozen World and European medals between 1985 and 1990, passed away following a heart attack Sunday, according to the Russian Gymnastics Federation. He was 49.Valentin Mogilny (USSR)Born December 18, 1965 in central Ukraine, Mogilny was one of the standout figures of the exceptional Soviet teams of the 1980s. His long legs and graceful comportment made him a formidable figure, especially on Pommel Horse, where he won World titles in 1985 and 1989.Coached by Alexander Alexandrov, Mogilny also won World gold on Parallel Bars in 1985 and silver in the All-around in 1989, and helped the Soviet men to the World team title both years. He closed out his career in style, winning the European All-around title in 1990.After retiring from gymnastics, Mogilny moved to France, where he coached in several different cities, most recently in the suburbs of Paris. From the mid-1980s to the end of the 1990s, he was married to 1981 World All-around champion Olga Bicherova (USSR), with whom he has a son.On behalf of the international Gymnastics family, the FIG wishes to extend their condolances to Mogilny’s family and friends. May he rest in peace.
Source: Fédération Internationale de Gymnastique – View FigNews
