Irina Kikkas

Irina Kikkas (born 22 July 1984) is an Estonian former rhythmic gymnast. She competed at the 2008 Summer Olympics and was the first Estonian rhythmic gymnast to compete at the Olympic Games.

Early life Kikkas was born on 22 July 1984 in Tallinn. Her father is an athletics coach who coached Estonian pole vaulter Valeri Bukrejev. She began rhythmic gymnastics when she was five years old.

Gymnastics career Kikkas competed at her first World Championships in 1999 and finished 49th in the all-around qualifications.

Kikkas finished 17th in the all-around competition at the 2004 European Championships. She did not qualify for the 2004 Summer Olympics.

Kikkas qualified for the all-around final at the 2007 World Championships, finishing 18th and earning a berth for the 2008 Summer Olympics. This marked the first time an Estonian rhythmic gymnast qualified for the Olympic Games.

Kikkas finished 16th in the all-around competition at the 2008 European Championships. She then represented Estonia at the 2008 Summer Olympics. During the qualification round, she dropped both the hoop and the clubs and finished in 20th place, failing to advance to the final.

Personal life Kikkas studied for a master's degree in choreography from Tallinn University. In 2009, she started her coaching career by opening her club named “Irina Kikkas Gymnastic Club”.