MINSK, 2 July (BelTA) – Hosting an international tournament is a big event for sport in general and a great responsibility for our country today, Belarusian Deputy Prime Minister Igor Petrishenko said as he opened the World Rhythmic Gymnastics Cup in Minsk Arena on 2 July, BelTA has learned.
“Rhythmic gymnastics is one of the most popular sports in our country. This is confirmed not only by the achievements of our athletes, of which we are all proud, but also by the attention paid in the country to the development of children's sport, and also the love of fans for this beautiful sport. Hosting an international tournament is a big event for sport in general and a great responsibility for our country today. We thank the participants for their trust and the opportunity to see the world's best athletes in Minsk," the vice-premier said.
According to him, the World Cup in Belarus is an additional test of strength in the run-up to the Olympic Games, an opportunity for gymnasts, who will soon perform at the main tournament in their sports careers, to fine-tune their routines.
“The competitions kick off ahead of Belarus' national holiday, Independence Day that marks an important historical data for our country – the liberation of Minsk from Nazi invaders. Our city is especially beautiful during this time. Minsk has always been known as a warm and welcoming city,” Igor Petrishenko said. “I invite you to attend the celebrations, and experience the hospitality, openness, and friendliness of Belarusians. I believe that you will want to come to Belarus again. Some politicians want to limit contacts between our countries, but they will fail. Because sport, art, and interpersonal relations between people have always been a uniting force. I am sure that we will be able to make this competition a great and memorable event, fully compliant with the spirit of good sportsmanship,” he added.
The 2021 FIG Rhythmic Gymnastics World Challenge Cup in Minsk will be the last competition for some athletes ahead of the Olympic Games in Tokyo. The event features athletes from Russia, Israel, Bulgaria, Ukraine, and Japan who are among the leaders at the most prestigious competitions. Belarus is represented by Alina Harnasko and Anastasiia Salos in individual events. The Belarusian team for group events includes Hanna Haidukevich, Anastasiya Malakanava, Anastasiya Rybakova, Hanna Shvaiba, Arina Tsitsilina, and Karyna Yarmolenka.
