The international boxing tournament among teenagers devoted to memory of President Heydar Aliyev started at the Sport Complex of the National Olympic Committee, May 7.

The competitions organized by the National Olympic Committee, Ministry of Youth, Sports and Tourism, Federation of Boxing. 134 young athletes from 10 countries (Azerbaijan, Turkey, Russia, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Ukraine, Georgia, Great Britain, Germany, Sweden) competing in 13 weight classes attended the contests.

NOC secretary general, vice-president of the European Boxing Federation, President of the Boxing Federation of Azerbaijan Agajan Abiyev noted that late Heydar Aliyev initiated the international boxing tournament in Azerbaijan in 1996. This tournament is quite popular. Azerbaijani athletes are very successful for some time. Azerbaijani boxers won many licenses to the Olympic games in Athens. Of 11 weight classes, Azerbaijani athletes will compete in 9.

A. Abiyev expressed hope that this tournament proves prestige of Azerbaijan in the international arena.

Senior referee, member of the judges committee of the International Boxing Federation Garib Ergunji expressed gratitude to the organizers for the hospitality and good level of the competition.

34 bouts in 9 weight classes were held on the first day.

Semifinals due on May 9. Winners will be known on May 10.