The International University Sports Federation or FISU Website has a feature written by South African FISU Young Reporter Fabio De Dominicis with an update on South African Rhythmic Gymnast Julene Van Rooyen. Van Rooyen who missed out on the competition at the Universiade is aiming for success at the upcoming World Championships in Ukraine. From the article, which you can see in full at http://www.fisu.net/en/Heartbreak-in-Kazan-for-injured-South-African-gymnast-3133.html?mbID=5379:
The 20-year old University of Pretoria student extended her Sports Science degree to five years to focus on training for the Summer Universiade in Kazan.Yet just a day after arriving in Russia, in her first hour of practise, Van Rooyen felt an unbearable pain. After being examined by doctors, Van Rooyen was rushed to the hospital to have her appendix removed.“If we waited any longer, it would have burst,” the rhythmic gymnast said.Van Rooyen spent the next four days in hospital, with all hopes of competing at the Universiade dashed.“I am really disappointed. I gave up so much to be here,” the South African said.The young athlete still has a broad smile on her face however, describing how she has still thoroughly enjoyed the experience of the Universiade.