Opinions & Interviews

MINSK, 18 September (BelTA) – Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko took note of the growing popularity of the Legends’ Race – Biathlon Stars for Peace festival as he met with the participants of the sport event at the National Olympic Center Raubichi on 18 September, BelTA has learned.

“I am convinced that there will be a contest for the participation in this amateur summer biathlon in Raubichi next year,” the President noted.

Alexander Lukashenko stressed that the organization of the festival in Belarus became possible also thanks to the initiative of three-time Olympic champion, Hero of Belarus Darya Domracheva. The event is, first of all, for professional retired athletes who are still ready to show their best at a high level. “This event is for you. It has been organized for you. It pursues one goal which is to prolong your sports life,” said the President.

Alexander Lukashenko is confident that such competitions can serve a good example and add motivation to active sportsmen. “We would like to see our active athletes meeting your level. We are still slightly behind. But we will catch up,” the Belarusian leader stressed.

He added that the Legends’ Race enjoys great popularity with biathlon fans.

Alexander Lukashenko received several presents, among which was a group photo of the prominent athletes, the participants of the festival, with their autographs.

The President also received a present from Norwegian biathlete Ole Einar Bjorndalen and his wife Darya Domracheva. “Darya could not come to the festival but she prepared a present from our family,” he said. “She has a good reason to be absent here,” the President answered.

Alexander Lukashenko also noted that the biggest present for him and the world biathlon in general would be if the talent of the children of these two outstanding athletes surpassed the one of their parents.