Back to your roots. President’s Sports Club chief unveils new project

The President’s Sports Club’s project Sports for Everyone is already well known. Thousands of Belarusians have taken part in outdoor fitness activities, regardless of the weather, as well as in races and chess tournaments. The Sport in the Yard marathon‑competition, the club’s new large‑scale project, also promises to become a major sports and media event. In an interview with BelTA, Dmitry Lukashenko, Head of the Presidential Sports Club, spoke about the project’s goals, its unique features, and what participants can expect.

Dmitry Aleksandrovich [Lukashenko], how did the idea for the Sport in the Yard project come about?

Since 2021, the President’s Sports Club, with the support of local authorities, has been implementing the nationwide project Sports for Everyone. We are building multifunctional sports grounds. There are already more than 180 of them across the country. Now we want to make sure this infrastructure is used to its full potential. Sport in the Yard is an attempt to create a powerful incentive for outdoor sports. We want to show that sports can be vibrant and engaging for everyone, regardless of age or fitness level. Our goal is to motivate people to go outside, make use of modern facilities, and improve their health.

The name “Sport in the Yard” sounds very familiar and warmly nostalgic. Why did you choose it?

We spent a long time looking for a name that would reflect the project’s philosophy. YARD is a whole universe for many Belarusians. It’s a symbol of childhood, of first games and first victories. It’s not just the area outside your home – it’s the entire familiar environment: parks, public gardens, stadiums. It’s something dear and close to the heart. SPORT is movement, discipline, and self‑improvement. We want to emphasize that you don’t have to go to a fitness club to work out - you can do it right here, near your home. So this name is an invitation to return to your roots, to remember the joy of childhood games, but to play sports at a new, modern level. Strength and spirit begin where you are — in your own yard!

The marathon‑competition will run from 15 May to 2 September. What awaits the participants?

Eighty days of activity, interesting challenges from our ambassadors, and a wealth of emotions. The marathon is divided into several stages. To take part, you need to find a President’s Sports Club facility, register on the website sportdvor.by, choose your category, and start training. Over the course of the marathon, participants must complete eight training sessions based on the challenges, film them, and post the videos on Instagram with the required hashtag for their category.

Sport in the Yard is a competition‑marathon. What prizes are planned?

Motivation is a key factor. For the most dedicated, creative, and successful participants, we have prepared cash prizes. The total prize fund is Br24,000. It will be distributed among the winners in four categories (for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd places). Registration opens on 15 May at sportdvor.by and will run through 15 July inclusive. The first marathon task will be made available for participants on 15 June.

Who can take part in the competition? Is special training required?

Sport in the Yard is a project for everyone! No special training is required. We have four categories. The first category - Men and Women (ages 14–50) - is for those ready to test their strength, endurance, and reach new athletic heights. The second category is Family for active couples and families who want to spend time together and instill a love for movement in their children. And the third is 50+ for those who prove that sports are accessible at any age. It’s a great way to stay energetic and set an example for the younger generation.

What other activities await participants?

Besides the competitive tasks, we are preparing plenty of interesting features: expert and ambassador columns, clinics, interviews, giveaways, and challenges. For now, we’re keeping the identity of our project ambassadors under wraps. All the details will appear on our social media channels, so stay tuned! I’ll just say that they are prominent figures from various fields - well‑known athletes, fitness experts, and media personalities.

We will also provide extensive information support across all regions. Our goal is to reach as many people as possible, because the main sports facilities are located precisely in district centers and agrotowns.

What would you say to those who are still considering whether to take part?

Sport in the Yard is a great chance to start a new, active chapter in your life. It’s an opportunity to challenge yourself, learn something new, and get energized for the whole year. No matter your fitness level - your first step onto the court already makes you a winner. Join us, and let this summer be your most active one yet!

Photo courtesy of sportdvor.by