Adress of Vitaly Mutko

Фото: Vitaly Mutko, Minister for sport, tourism and youth policy of the Russian Federation

Dear friends, dear sport fans

On behalf of the Ministry for Sport, Tourism and Youth Policy of the Russian Federation and on my own I am glad to welcome the organizers, the participants and the guests of the European Junior and U23 Canoe Spring Championships!

This year Russian rowing celebrates its 150th anniversary and the upcoming competition fits naturally into the celebration of this remarkable jubilee. It is pleasant to notice that in the recent years our canoe and kayak rowers, first of all Juniors, have been gradually returning to the leading positions at the international stage.

It is great that the competition will take place during the International Sports Forum "Russia - country of sports!", one of the main of which is promotion of the Olympic ideals and healthy lifestyle among the youths. In this respect the organization of the upcoming Junior event is in fully agreement with the aims and goals of the Forum, dedicated to the 30th anniversary of the XXII Olympic Games in Moscow.

I am certain that we will see a lot of gifted youth athletes, potential participants of the Games in London and Rio-de-Janeiro, future Olympians at the "Krylatskoe" watercourse.

I wish all the participants 'fast' water and bright victories and the spectators - unforgettable impressions and great mood!