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Spotlight: Anna Kozlova, Synchronized Swimming
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Posted: Friday April 16, 1999 02:08 PM
Kozlova is swimming pretty. |
Born: Dec. 30, 1972, St. Petersburg, Russia
Residence: Santa Clara, Calif.
Upcoming Event: Jantzen National Synchronized Swimming Championships, April 22-24, Goodwill Games Aquatic Center, East Meadow, N.Y.
Worth Watching Because: Kozlova is the best synchronized swimmer in the U.S., and, if all goes according to plan, she will finally be able to join the U.S. National Team this year. In order to be eligible to apply for U.S. citizenship, Kozlova has had to remain unattached from any national team for the past five years -- including that of her native Russia. While Kozlova cannot submit her citizenship application until June 9, and will then have to wait for approval, this month's Nationals could offer a sneak preview of the star of the 2000 U.S. Olympic synchro team.
Since 1994, Kozlova has competed for a private club, the Santa Clara Aquamaids. She has won the solo and figures championships at Nationals three years running -- and in '96 and '97 she also won the duet. Kozlova has been a team champion at Nationals every year since 1994 and since then has also chalked up first-place finishes in (among other events) the solo at the French, German, Japan, Rome, Scottish and WestZones Opens. In 1992, Kozlova competed for Russia in the Olympic games and finished fourth in the duet.
In her 17-year career Kozlova has become famous for imitating animals in her solo routines. In the past she's done a snake and a bird, and at this year's Nationals will probably attempt a lion. Kozlova likes the natural beauty and grace of animals as well as the fact that their movements transcend cultural barriers.
Kozlova could be granted citizenship in time to compete with the U.S. National Team at the Pan Am Games in August. But even if she has to wait a bit longer, by the time the Sydney Games get started Kozlova should be swimming pretty for the U.S.
Greatest Success: Taking fourth place in the duet at the 1992 Olympics.
Quote/Unquote: "The thing I like best about America is the spirit of the people. They never give up."
Cool Fact: Until she became active in synchronized swimming at age nine, Kozlova's goal was to be a ballerina in the Russian ballet.
Come back soon for a new women's sports Spotlight.
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