Today, in Batumi, at the Mukhran Vakhtangadze Sports Palace, the first day of the European Kurash Championship among seniors, cadets, and juniors concluded with the junior competitions.
Nearly 150 young Kurash athletes from 19 countries competed fiercely in 19 weight categories for the continental championship. The first half of the day featured qualification rounds, followed by the official opening ceremony at 4:00 PM local time.
In solemn moments, Shalva Gogoladze, Minister of Sport of Georgia Adkham Ikramov, Minister of Sport of the Republic of Uzbekistan and First Vice-President of the International Kurash Association Merampi Iliadis, President of the European Kurash Confederation Maya Khajishvili, Minister of Education and Sport of Adjara, Archil Chikovani Mayor of Batumi, took part in the ceremony as a guest of honor.
The national flags of the participating countries were presented with a ceremony. Officials took the floor to wish all athletes luck, fair competition, and success. They particularly emphasized how interest in Kurash is growing daily in Georgia and highlighted the country’s leadership’s comprehensive support for sports development.
During the cultural part of the opening ceremony, The Georgian people performed the Georgian folk song “Gandagana,” as well as national dances featuring traditional hats and belts. The national values and artistic harmony of the Georgian people shared warmth and festive spirit with every spectator. This was not just an opening but also a historic event for the sport of Kurash, a beautiful demonstration of friendship and unity through Kurash to the world.
Thereafter, the competitions continued with their final stages. The semifinals and finals became a true display of skill, determination, and love for the sport. Behind every victory stands hard work, intense preparation, and continuous training.
At the end of the day, the strongest were crowned as a champion—they were awarded the European Championship medals, diplomas, and commemorative gifts. They have not only brought pride to their own countries but have also become an honor for the entire continent of Kurash.
The championship will continue tomorrow with competitions among seniors and cadets.
