Yukari Murata secured a berth at this summer's Athens Olympics after dominating in all four disciplines and placing first in the all-around standings in an Olympic qualifying event for rhythmic gymnastics Sunday.
Murata, a bronze medalist at the 2002 Asian Games, earned 98.200 points for hoop, ball, clubs and ribbon at Yoyogi national gymnasium in Tokyo to earn her ticket to Athens and a second straight Olympic appearance.
"After going to the Olympics as a team member, my desire to compete in the individual event grew stronger," said Murata who took part in the team event at the 2000 Games in Sydney.
Yachiyo Nakamura was second with 90.450 points and Ai Yokochi third with 90.350.