MINSK, 7 August (BelTA) - The Belarusian National Olympic Committee hosted a ceremony to honor the nation's champions and medalists of the 18th Summer European Youth Olympic Festival (EYOF), BelTA learned.
Belarus sent 46 athletes to Skopje, the capital of North Macedonia, in late July. They won 13 medals: 5 gold, 4 silver, and 4 bronze. Team Belarus finished 12th in the overall medal standings among 49 participating nations.
Maksim Malyshka is a two-time champion with the titles in the 100m breaststroke and 200m breaststroke events. Mikita Lyakh won gold in Boys' 50m Freestyle and silver in Boys' 100m Freestyle. Alina Nestsiarovich came in first in 10m Air Pistol Solo Girls and second in 10m Air Pistol Girls.
Darya Chuprys and Arseni Livantsou secured gold in the 10m Air Rifle Duet Hit/Miss. Arseni Livantsou also picked up a bronze medal in 10m Air Rifle Boys. Other silver medalists were Anastasiya Vasilenka (50m freestyle swimming] and Uladzimir Shramuk (Boys -63kg taekwondo. Team Belarus bronze medalists were Yury Krautsou (10m Air Pistol Boys), Mikita Belavyi (Boys-48kg Taekwondo) and Maryia Strunets (Girls -49kg Taekwondo).
"Our athletes hadn't participated in events of this caliber since 2021. While we did compete in the Children of Asia and Children of Primorye Games, there were still concerns about how successfully we could perform after our return to international circuit. Ultimately, our athletes overcame all obstacles. They showed no fear, battled through the heat, and rewarded us with medals. The Olympic festival represents a crucial milestone for young athletes on their way to elite-level competition, while also providing a unique opportunity to connect with international peers. We come ready to compete, but we're equally prepared to build friendships beyond the arena,” NOC President Viktor Lukashenko noted. “We take particular pride in seeing Belarusians compete under the National Olympic Committee emblem wearing our national colors. The day when we can return to the global stage with our national flag and emblem is not far off. These victories crown the collective efforts of parents, coaches, medical staff, and team personnel.”
“The athletes have demonstrated exceptional dedication and delivered outstanding performances. The coaches' tireless efforts have truly borne fruit,” Belarusian First Deputy Sport and Tourism Minister Aleksandr Dorokhovich stated. “Our heartfelt gratitude to everyone for these unforgettable moments. We take immense pride in our young generation and are confident they will continue to grow and excel. What matters most is that these young participants of the Olympic festival develop into world-class athletes who will make Belarus proud. They have all the necessary tools: talent and determination, combined with state-supported infrastructure and resources.”
Medalists of the European Youth Olympic Festival (EYOF) received financial rewards and commemorative gifts from the Belarusian National Olympic Committee. The coaches in swimming, pistol shooting, and taekwondo - who trained the young champions - were similarly honored. The athletes also received gifts from the Belarusian NOC's general sponsor, Belagroprombank, and NOC’s partner, Belavia Airline. Meanwhile, coaching staff were awarded honorary diplomas and valuable prizes from the Sport and Tourism Ministry.
NOC photos
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