About Region One

For administrative purposes the United States is divided up into 6 geographical regions numbered 1 through 6. Each region is staffed by professional member volunteers who are elected to Regional and State Chair positions according to the USA Gymnastics rules and policies. Region 1 is comprised of the states of Arizona, California, Nevada, New Mexico and Utah.

Jody Hurlburt - Region 1 Chair

Jody has a degree in Physical Education from Humboldt State University and is owner/director of Redwood Rhythmics, Arcata, California. She also is and has been an instructor of Gymnastics at H.S.U.for 11 years, a USA Professional Member, for 25 years, a Rhythmic Gymnastics Official, for 11 years, and a Judging Certifier for USA Rhythmic Junior Olympic Program, for 5 years. She has held the position of Region 1 Nor Cal State Director, 4 years and Region 1 Director, for 4 years and is serving a second term.

"As Region 1 Director I will rely on the Region 1 Board of Directors to guide the future growth of USA Rhythmic Gymnastics. The Board is responsible to collect information from our Region's Professional, Instructor, and Athlete members. Problems and constructive suggestions can then be offered for discussion and resolution by the Board. The range of experience on our Region 1 Board gives me confidence that we will continue to progress in Region 1 as well as serve the future development of our sport nationally and internationally."

Simona Zakheim - Judges Representative

Simona has been a part of rhythmic gymnastics for over 20 years, as a gymnast, coach and judge.  She spent 6 years on the US National team, as a junior, senior and group routine athlete.  She had the honor of representing the US internationally at such competitions as Four Continents and World Championships.  In 1987 she hung up her leotard and began coaching and judging.  As a judge, she has represented the US internationally at the Kalamata Cup, Pacific Alliance, Four Continents, Pan Am and more.  Currently, Simona is serving a 4 year term as the North America delegate to the PAGU Rhythmic Technical Committee. "My suggestion for future growth of this sport lies with coaches and judges... as leaders of this beautiful sport we have to work together by dividing our labor on two fronts: the JO level is our hope for the future... the national/international arena is our face to the rhythmic world today.  Use your talents wisely... I once heard someone say You can not sit in two chairs at once..."

"Our athletes have what it takes to be the best...the question is do we?"

Tatyana Itkina - Coaches Representative

Alla Svirsky - Region 1 Rhythmic Technical Chair

Nino Mgalobely - Northern California State Chair

Ivanka Kirov - Southern California State Chair

Open - Nevada State Chair

Open - New Mexico State Chair

Open - Arizona State Chair

Open - Utah State Chair