Five-time Valencia champion keeps Bulgaria close to her heart

Five-time Valencia regional rhythmic gymnastics champion Elia Zhelyazkova is earning recognition in Spain while maintaining a strong connection to her Bulgarian heritage, Bulgaria's Consulate General in Valencia said on Facebook.

Born in the Spanish coastal city of Torrevieja, Zhelyazkova has won gold medals at numerous competitions. Among her most notable achievements is a fourth-place finish at the Spanish Rhythmic Gymnastics Championships, placing her among the country's leading competitors.

Despite growing up in Spain, she speaks fluent Bulgarian – something the Consulate attributes to her parents' dedication to preserving the family's language, traditions and national identity.

The Consulate General congratulated Zhelyazkova on her achievements and wished her continued success.

Editor: Miglena Ivanova