One look at ultra-flexible Alina Kabayeva and it's obvious that she is a star. Looks, talent and charisma combine to make her possibly the most popular (with fans and judges) rhythmic gymnast in history. With slightly more than one year until her first Olympic Games, most experts have already conceded the crown to Kabayeva.

Her routines are an unusual mix of elegance, innovation, playfulness and beauty. She is much more than her outstanding, Gumby-like positions. Alina is the perfect meld of art and athleticism; the ultimate rhythmic gymnast.

The total Kabayeva package is one that you have to see to appreciate and if you can't wait until Sydney to view her in action, gymnastics-photographer-extraordinare Eileen Langsley's pictures are the next best thing.

So, without further ado, we introduce you to the one, the only, Alina Kabayeva. We guarantee you that you'll never look at rhythmic gymnastics the same way again.

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FLEXIBILITY:

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ALL PHOTOS BY EILEEN LANGSLEY © IG, ALL RIGHTS RESERVED