SEEING-OFF CEREMONY OF AZERBAIJANI OLYMPIC SPORTSMEN HELD
A seeing-off ceremony was held on 30 July for Azerbaijani sportsmen to represent the country at the 29th Olympic Games in Beijing.
President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev attended the ceremony.
The ceremony was opened by Azad Rahimov, the Minister of Youth and Sports, who, in particular, said: “It is the fourth time in the history of independent Azerbaijan when Azerbaijani sportsmen are sent to the most prestigious sports contest - Olympic Games.” As stated, the Azerbaijani national team will include 44 sportsmen at the Olympic Games in Beijing. Preparation for Olympic Games has been reported to be successful so far, the Minister stressed. “Olympic sports bases were determined in the country and training of best sportsmen commenced at the second stage. And the main licenses to the Beijing Olympic Games were gained in 2007-2008,” the Minister said.
According to the Minister, the amount of funds allotted for preparation for Olympic Games is ever increasing. AZN 425,000 was allocated for preparation for Atlanta Olympic Games, while AZN 545,000 for Sidney Games, AZN 700,000 for Athens Games and AZN 3.15mln for the Beijing Games.
The Minister said the Olympic movement is expanding in the country. 13 Olympic complexes have been commissioned so far, while construction of 23 complexes is underway.
President Ilham Aliyev addressed the sportsmen. Expressing hope and confidence for success of the sportsmen, the head of state said that now Azerbaijan is recognized as a sports country.
Beginning from 2005, Azerbaijani sportsmen have gained 467 medals at international contests. Rhythmic gymnastics is experiencing fast development. For the first time Azerbaijani gymnasts won a license for group exercises.
The President said that a special prize fund has been established for the Olympic winners. “But what leads to victory is patriotism of our sportsmen,” President Aliyev emphasized.
President and the sportsmen were taken their photos.
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