A Legacy of Golden Girls

Legendary rhythmic gymnastics coach Nesha Robeva has reached a major milestone, turning 80 years old. Known globally for creating the "golden girls" era of Bulgarian gymnastics, Robeva marked the occasion not with a lavish party, but with a heartfelt gathering at the Levski Sofia gymnastics hall. The event coincided with the final day of the Levski Cup and the Margarita Rangelova award, moved to May 26 specifically for her birthday.

When asked who the most golden girl in her life is, the answer arrived from behind her. Her daughter, Aglika, and granddaughter, Rada, stepped forward. "Aglika is my treasure," Robeva said. "Vanga once told me God gave her to me. I never told her that, so she wouldn't get a big head. She is my example of a good mother, because I wasn't one. Aglika and Rada are my most golden girls."

Three Generations of Support

The celebration brought together three generations of the Robeva family, alongside former students and dancers from her "Neshanal Art" group. Aglika kissed her mother, wishing her health and energy. "May she stay energetic and keep annoying us," she joked. Robeva laughed back, noting that Aglika handles everything for her now, from shopping to daily tasks.

Granddaughter Rada added her wishes, hoping her grandmother stays healthy and continues to support her endeavors. "There is time to become a great-grandmother," Rada smiled, prompting Robeva to joke that she still feels eight years old, energized by the children in the hall. She expressed hope to stay active until she is three, the age of the youngest gymnasts.

An Unbreakable Spirit

Former absolute world champion Maria Petrova, now vice-president of the Bulgarian Gymnastics Federation, attended the event. She described Robeva as a national treasure and an unbreakable spirit. "She taught me never to give up and never to be satisfied with what I have achieved," Petrova said. "We went from coach and athlete to friends. She is a great teacher."

Robeva reflected on the day, noting how many former athletes and dancers showed up. She thanked God for the day, admitting that few of her colleagues expected to celebrate their 80th birthday given their stressful careers. When offered a medal for her 80th, she jokingly asked for one for her 100th. "I just pray I have the strength to finish a few more things I haven't done yet," she said, hinting at her ongoing projects.