Neues Deutschland. September 2, 1972. In this space, we offer readers a daily opportunity to pose interesting questions to East German athletes who proved their mettle in competition. We have these questions answered in Munich.
Karin Janz responds to Horst Drinda, an actor from Berlin.
Horst Drinda: How long has the somersault between the uneven bars existed?
Karin Janz: You mean the Radochla roll. That has been around for eight years. My somersault is a variation of it. It's more difficult.
HD: You always seem very focused. How do you manage that?
KJ: I make every effort to prepare myself thoroughly for the competition in every respect.
HD: How tall are you?
KJ: One meter fifty-six. So you really should have asked: how short!
HD: Do you enjoy dancing?
KJ: Yes.
HD: What did you do after winning your fifth Olympic medal?
KJ: I'll have to think about that for a moment. Well, first I went to the interview room for the international press conference. Then, back at the Olympic Village, our team management raised a glass to me. And finally, we gymnasts celebrated with our coaches.
HD: How far can you jump in the long jump?
KJ: I haven't done any jumping since the fourth grade.
HD: Aside from gymnastics, which sport do you find most interesting?
KJ: Actually, I find them all interesting. But my favorites to watch are figure skating and diving.
HD: What do you do for a living?
KJ: I am studying medicine. My second year of studies begins shortly.
HD: The joy following a successful routine is usually quite subdued among the female gymnasts. Why isn't there any cheering?
KJ: Because you're usually already thinking about the next apparatus - unless, of course, you're finished.
HD: What is your favorite food?
KJ: Whatever I'm not allowed to eat very often.
HD: How long have you been doing gymnastics?
KJ: My father started working with me when I was six months old. I began competitive gymnastics ten years ago - ten years ago to the day, in fact.
HD: Which Soviet gymnast do you have the closest relationship with?
KJ: Actually, I have a good relationship with all of them. Naturally, I know the ones best with whom I've been competing for years.
HD: Did you dress up especially nicely for the competition?
KJ: Of course. That's always part of it for us.
HD: How often do you go to the theater?
KJ: Unfortunately, not often enough. On average, once a month.