Skip to main content

Author: jose.rivas

Cyprus tops the medal table as Andorra shines as host of the GSSE 2025

Written by jose.rivas on . Posted in GSSE, Sports, Summer Sports. No Comments on Cyprus tops the medal table as Andorra shines as host of the GSSE 2025

The Principality of Andorra is experiencing a historic week as it hosts the 20th edition of the Games of the Small States of Europe (GSSE), taking place from 26 to 31 May. With over 800 athletes from nine countries, Andorra has become a vibrant stage for sport, culture, and achievement. As the Games enter their final stretch, the medal table tells a compelling story of fierce competition — with the host nation emerging as one of the standout performers both on and off the field.

🥇 Cyprus sets the pace

Cyprus leads the medal table with an impressive 22 golds, 23 silvers, and 32 bronzes, totalling 77 medals. Its athletes have excelled particularly in athletics, gymnastics, and swimming, reaffirming the country’s dominance at this level of international sport.

🥈 Iceland and Luxembourg in close pursuit

Iceland holds second place with 21 golds and 54 total medals, buoyed by strong individual performances across various disciplines. Luxembourg follows closely behind, having secured 18 golds and 56 medals overall, in what has been one of the most competitive editions of the GSSE to date.

Andorra: proud host and rising sporting force

One of the most inspiring stories of these Games is the performance of the host nation. With 10 gold, 2 silver, and 8 bronze medals (20 in total), Andorra is delivering one of its best performances in GSSE history.

Highlights include gold-medal wins from Nahuel Carabaña (3000m steeplechase), Pol Moya (800m), and Jess Martin(10,000m), who have thrilled local fans with stellar runs on home soil. In swimming, Kevin Teixeira claimed gold in the 800m freestyle, while the debut of karate at the GSSE featured powerful performances from Paula González and Maria Ubiergo, aged just 16, who took gold and bronze respectively.

🎭 An opening steeped in symbolism

The opening ceremony at the Estadi Nacional set the tone for the week, blending Andorran folklore with modern spectacle. Over 4,000 spectators watched as traditional figures like the Dama Blanca and the mythical tamarro paraded alongside folk dancers and fallaires. The torch was lit in a moving moment by Olympic athletes Mònica Doria and Joan Verdú.

With two days of competition remaining and several finals still to be contested, the medal standings could yet shift. However, Andorra has already proven itself a remarkable host and a nation on the rise in sport. The GSSE 2025 will be remembered not just for the medals won, but for the spirit, pride, and unity displayed throughout the Principality.

Sandro Bazadze and Enver Yildirim Shines in Madrid at the “Villa de Madrid” Men’s Sabre World Cup

Written by jose.rivas on . Posted in FEN, Sports. No Comments on Sandro Bazadze and Enver Yildirim Shines in Madrid at the “Villa de Madrid” Men’s Sabre World Cup

Madrid, Spain — The Polideportivo Municipal Gallur in Madrid became the heart of the fencing world this weekend as it hosted the prestigious “Villa de Madrid” Men’s Sabre World Cup, bringing together 257 elite individual fencersand 28 national teams. Yet, by the end of the competition, all eyes were firmly on two standout names: Sandro Bazadze of Georgia and Enver Yildirim of Türkiye.

Bazadze Claims Gold with Authority

Georgia’s Sandro Bazadze proved once again why he is one of the premier sabreurs on the international stage, capturing the individual gold medal with a commanding performance throughout the event. In the final bout, he showcased composure and clinical execution to defeat Türkiye’s rising star Enver Yildirim by a decisive 15-8.

Bazadze was dominant from the early rounds, but truly impressed in the semi-final, where he faced Korea’s Gyeongdong Do. The Georgian held his nerve in a closely contested match, eventually winning 15-13. With a blend of tactical intelligence and athletic sharpness, Bazadze reaffirmed his reputation as one of the sport’s finest competitors.

Yildirim’s Breakthrough Performance

Despite finishing with silver, Enver Yildirim was undoubtedly the breakout star of the tournament. The Turkish fencer stunned the field with a series of sensational upsets, most notably in the round of 16, where he edged past reigning Olympic and World Champion Sanguk Oh of Korea, 15-14. That victory sent shockwaves through the fencing community and marked Yildirim as a serious contender.

Yildirim continued his impressive run by defeating the Italian fencer Michele Gallo  in the quarter-finals and then overcame Korea’s Sangwon Park in the semi-finals, again by 15-13. With fast-paced attacks, emotional intensity and fearless decision-making, Yildirim reached his first-ever World Cup final, establishing himself as a formidable presence on the world stage.

High Drama in a World-Class Field

The tournament featured numerous surprises. Among the most notable was the early elimination of Hungary’s Aron Szilagyi, the three-time Olympic champion, who was beaten 15-13 in the round of 32 by Germany’s Matyas Szabo. Fellow Hungarian and World Champion Andras Szatmari also exited early, falling 15-9 to Sebastien Patrice in the last 16.

The final eight fencers in the individual event were Bazadze (GEO), Yildirim (TUR), Gyeongdong Do (KOR), Sangwon Park (KOR), Sebastien Patrice (FRA), Fares Ferjani (TUN), Jean-Philippe Patrice (FRA), and Michele Gallo (ITA).

France Dominates the Team Competition

In the team sabre event, France clinched gold with a convincing 45-34 victory over Hungary in the final. The French squad displayed tactical cohesion and technical superiority, having previously overcome Romania in the semi-finals, 45-41. Hungary had reached the final after narrowly defeating the United States in a thrilling 45-44 encounter. The bronze medal went to Romania, who beat the USA 45-40 in the third-place match.

A Tournament to Remember

The “Villa de Madrid” World Cup proved to be a thrilling chapter in the 2024–25 fencing season, not just for its competitive excellence, but for the compelling stories it brought to light. Sandro Bazadze delivered a masterclass in consistency and control, while Enver Yildirim captured the imagination of fans with his fearless rise to the final. Madrid played host to world-class fencing – and two unforgettable performances that will be talked about for months to come.

European Canoe Slalom Elite Meet in Vaires-sur-Marne

Written by jose.rivas on . Posted in Sports, Summer Sports. No Comments on European Canoe Slalom Elite Meet in Vaires-sur-Marne

The 2025 Canoe Slalom European Championships, held from 14 to 18 May in Vaires-sur-Marne (France), concluded with a strong showing from the host nation, particularly in the kayak cross discipline. The event brought together many of Europe’s top paddlers in one of the key competitions of the whitewater calendar.

Kayak Cross: Home Advantage Counts

French athletes delivered notable performances in kayak cross — a fast-paced and tactical discipline involving head-to-head racing through a slalom course.

  • Camille Prigent was crowned European champion in the women’s event, displaying consistency and control throughout the elimination rounds and final.
  • In the men’s event, Boris Neveu reached the final and stood out as one of the key performers, underlining France’s strength in the discipline.

Balanced Podiums and High-Level Competition

The championships featured strong competition across all categories, with medals shared among traditional slalom nations including Germany, the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Slovenia and Great Britain.

Events were held in both individual and team formats across C1 (single canoe), K1 (single kayak) and kayak cross, for both men and women. The field featured a mix of experienced paddlers and emerging talents, contributing to a technically demanding and engaging championship.

For full results and further details, visit the official website of the European Canoe Association: www.canoe-europe.org

Would you know what to do if you got injured?

Written by jose.rivas on . Posted in Article, EYOF. 1 Comment on Would you know what to do if you got injured?

Many people who have recently taken up sport are still unsure whether it’s better to apply cold or heat to an injury. To help clear up any doubts, the Professional College of Physiotherapists of the Community of Madrid (CPFCM) has prepared the following information, which could be helpful. However, the first thing you should do in the event of an injury is to consult your physiotherapist or a doctor.

Differences

Cold and heat have opposite effects: cold is a vasoconstrictor, while heat is a vasodilator. For this reason, cryotherapy(cold treatment) and thermotherapy (heat treatment) are usually applied separately, although they can sometimes be combined, as in contrast baths.

Cold

When to apply it. Cold is recommended during the first two or three days following an acute injury, especially if there is significant inflammation. This includes muscle tears, impacts, contusions, sprains, strains, dislocations, fractures or tendinitis. In these cases, the aim is to reduce acute pain and inflammation, which can cause excessive pressure on tissues, restrict movement, increase pain and impair muscle function.

Effects. Cold reduces the diameter of the capillaries in the affected area, decreasing blood flow, heart rate and metabolism. This reduced blood flow creates an analgesicand anti-inflammatory effect.

It also decreases muscle contractility, which means fewer spasms and cramps — another source of pain.

Don’t overdo it. Cold acts as a local anaesthetic by altering skin sensitivity, but it can cause burns if overused. As a general rule, apply cold for no more than 8 to 10minutes, two to four times per day.

How to apply it. Cold gel packs, creams and gels are all useful because they can adapt to the injured area. An ice bath or a bag of crushed ice wrapped in a cloth to protect the skin can also be used.

That said, recent research suggests that inflammation — like fever — is a natural response of the body to trauma.

In some cases, such as mild muscle injuries or contusions, and always under the supervision of a healthcare professional like a physiotherapist, it may be advisable to avoid cold and anti-inflammatories and allow the body’s natural healing process to take place.

Heat

When to apply it. Heat is used when an increase in body temperature and blood circulation is needed. This is typical in long-standing muscle problems such as soreness, fatigue or chronic conditions. It’s especially useful for treating overuse injuries, poor posture, stiffness, or for warming up tissues before physical activity to help prevent injuries.

Effects. Heat increases blood flow through vasodilation — the widening of capillaries in the area. As a result, it reduces muscle stiffness and pain by providing a soothingeffect that relaxes and relieves muscle fatigue. It also improves tissue elasticity.

Therefore, heat should only be used when the injury is no longer acute, there is noinflammation, and at least 72 hourshave passed since the injury occurred.

How to apply it. The method chosen should suit the affected area. For surface-level application, you can use an electric heating pad, wheat bag, mudpacks, hot compresses, or heat creams and gels.

For more serious or long-term injuries, physiotherapists may use deep thermotherapy devices, such as shortwave therapy, microwaves, or hyperthermia. Don’t overdo it. Depending on the type of injury or condition, heat should be applied for around 15 to 20 minutes, one to three times a day. Always monitor the skin to avoidburns. The sensation should be intensely warm but comfortable.

Combining Heat and Cold

It can often be beneficial to combine hot and cold treatments — such as in contrast baths — because the temperature changes create a vascular micromassage, alternately dilating and contracting the blood vessels.

When to apply it. When there is a need to stimulate circulation, for instance, after immobilisation, surgery, circulatory problems, or strenuous physical activity — especially affecting the lower limbs.

Don’t overdo it. A contrast bath involves three to four minutes of hot (but not scalding) water, followed by one minute of cool (not icy) water. This cycle should berepeated four to five times, ending with cold.

In summary:

Although you should always consult a physiotherapist or doctor when faced with an injury, this information can serve as a basic guide to help you manage minor issues that may arise during everyday physical activity.

Countdown to the Start of the Games

Written by jose.rivas on . Posted in EOC, GSSE, Summer Sports. No Comments on Countdown to the Start of the Games

Just two weeks to go until the Games of the Small States of Europe Andorra 2025 kick off, and you can already feel the buzz in the air. Banners are going up on lampposts and balconies, and sports venues are being fine-tuned in every detail. With the clock ticking down, we already know the key elements that will give this edition its personality: the mascot, the torch, and the cauldron have all been unveiled.

Now, all eyes are on the final team lists. National squads are putting the finishing touches on preparations, some have already announced preliminary line-ups, and the confirmed athletes for events like athletics, swimming, judo or cycling should be announced any day now. For many of these competitors, the Games are a major milestone—a chance to represent their country in an event that blends sport, culture and connection.

Valiret, the official mascot

Valiret will be the friendly face of the Games. He’s a tamarro—a mythical forest creature from the Pyrenees—given a modern and approachable look. The name was chosen through a public vote and reflects Andorra’s close link to nature, especially its rivers, which bring life and energy to the country. Valiret also nods to the past, reviving the spirit of the 1991 Games—the last time Andorra hosted the event.

A torch inspired by mountains, unity and tradition

The official torch is packed with symbolism. Designed by creative studio Aymara, its shape mimics the silhouette of Comapedrosa, Andorra’s highest peak. Engraved at the base are the names of the country’s seven parishes, a reminder of unity and shared effort. The torch is surrounded by seven metallic rings, representing each parish. Built from stainless steel, the design is clean and sturdy, and the flame inside stands for the Olympic spirit—but also the light that guides those hiking through the mountains. The torch is set to tour all seven parishes before arriving at the National Stadium for the opening ceremony.

The cauldron – still under wraps

The cauldron design is still a secret, but we know it’s the work of Andorran sculptor Toni Cruz. Built from iron, it ties into the country’s mining heritage and aims to represent collective effort, resilience and support. Cruz wants this piece to honour not just athletes, but also the coaches, families, medical staff and volunteers who’ve helped make the journey possible. The big reveal will come on the opening night—when the torch flame arrives and the cauldron is lit to officially launch the Games.

Final touches and growing excitement

As the start date gets closer, preparations are shifting into high gear. Volunteers are in training, delegations are beginning to arrive, and training sessions are picking up pace. Everything needs to be ready—from venue signage to transport schedules between the different sites. For many in Andorra, this is a chance to show the world their warm welcome, organisational skill and love of sport.

Andorra 2025 is shaping up to be a close-knit edition where it’s not just about winning, but also about sharing. With almost everything in place, all that’s left is to welcome the teams, confirm the final names, and get things underway.

European Hopes Narrow as Portugal Advance to Semi-Finals in Seychelles

Written by jose.rivas on . Posted in Sports. No Comments on European Hopes Narrow as Portugal Advance to Semi-Finals in Seychelles

The quarter-finals of the FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup Seychelles 2025™ offered a mixed picture for European nations. While Portugal progressed to the semi-finals after a tense and high-scoring match against Japan, both Spain and Italy were eliminated, ending their campaigns earlier than hoped.


Portugal remain the sole European representative in the semi-finals, following a closely fought 7-6 win over Japan. The match featured moments of high intensity and tactical depth, with Portugal relying on its core of experienced players to manage the flow of play. Jordan and Bê Martins were instrumental once again, combining effectively in attack and offering leadership during critical stages. While Japan pushed them to the limit, Portugal’s ability to maintain composure in the final period proved decisive.


Having won the world title twice before, Portugal’s presence in the final four underscores their continued prominence on the global stage. Their balance of technical skill, discipline, and familiarity with high-pressure fixtures remains a key asset as they prepare for the next round.


Spain, who had shown flashes of promise in the group stage, were unable to match Brazil’s pace and power in their quarter-final encounter. The 6-0 defeat was the most decisive result of the round and marked a disappointing end to a campaign that had raised expectations. Spain struggled to create clear chances and were quickly forced onto the back foot by a Brazilian side that pressed high and moved the ball with speed and confidence.


The Spanish defence found itself overwhelmed, and with limited time in possession, La Roja were unable to impose their game plan. Despite the scoreline, the experience gained in this edition will serve the Spanish squad as they continue building towards future competitions.
Italy’s quarter-final clash against Senegal was a more balanced affair, with the European side narrowly losing 4-3 in a contest that remained open until the closing stages. Italy showed tactical discipline, maintaining a compact defensive shape and looking to exploit space on the counter-attack. Their game plan yielded periods of control, but Senegal’s efficiency on set pieces and clinical finishing tipped the scales.


The Italian side depart Seychelles with credit, having shown maturity and a clearer tactical identity. While the result was disappointing, there were positive signs for the future, particularly in terms of squad cohesion and adaptability.


Portugal now turn their attention to a semi-final showdown against Brazil, scheduled for Saturday, 10 May. The fixture promises a compelling clash of styles, with Europe’s last standing nation facing the defending champions. Portugal’s ability to maintain structure and absorb pressure will be tested against a Brazilian side known for its creative play and scoring power.


While only one European team remains, the continent’s overall performance in Seychelles demonstrates the growing depth and competitiveness of beach soccer programmes. Spain and Italy, though ultimately eliminated, displayed improvements in team organisation, player development, and strategic planning.


Portugal’s presence in the semi-finals offers a continued European challenge at the highest level. As the Games reach their conclusion, SportEurope will continue to follow the continent’s remaining contender in the hope that Europe might once again contest a world title.

What sport should I practise? Which is the healthiest?

Written by jose.rivas on . Posted in Article, EYOF. No Comments on What sport should I practise? Which is the healthiest?

At some point, you’ve probably asked yourself:
What sport is healthiest for me? How do I choose the one that best suits my situation?
Today, I want to help clear up these doubts. And the one thing we can say without a doubt is this:
The most important thing is to move.

Sport: Health on all levels

Sport not only improves your body but also your mind. In addition to its physical benefits, such as controlling weight, improving circulation, and reducing the risk of conditions like hypertension or cardiovascular diseases, it also has positive effects on our mental health. It reduces stress, combats anxiety, and improves concentration.

In summary, doing sport increases our life expectancy and quality of life. But, of course, the key question is:
What is the healthiest sport?

There is no single answer. It depends on your personal context, and in many cases, a combination of several sports might be the best option.

What factors should we consider?

To decide which sport is most suitable, there are three key factors we must consider:

  1. Age and fitness level:
    Any sport can be adapted to your age and fitness level, but it’s not the same to swim in a heated pool as it is in open water. You need to consider your body’s needs and what suits you best.
  2. Variety of stimuli:
    Our body needs to work in different areas: strength, endurance, and flexibility. A sport that covers all these aspects will be more complete and beneficial.
  3. Fun factor:
    If you don’t enjoy the sport you practise, it won’t be sustainable. The motivator factor is key. The goal is to find something you enjoy and can incorporate into your routine.

Analysing some popular sports

Football and Basketball

Football and basketball are among the most popular sports, and it’s easy to see why. In addition to being fun, they are highly social. However, they can be injury-prone, especially if you don’t have a solid fitness base. Injuries to ankles, knees, and ligaments are common, even at an amateur level.

Running

Running seems like a simple and accessible sport, but it’s not for everyone. While running is an excellent way to improve cardiovascular health, if you don’t have an adequate fitness base or basic knowledge of technique, it can lead to injuries, especially in the joints. Moreover, the constant impact can limit its practice as we age.

Swimming

Swimming is one of the most complete sports. It engages the entire musculature, improves lung capacity, and is low impact, making it ideal for people with overweight or joint issues.

However, like everything, it has its downsides. Access to a heated pool or swimming facility isn’t always available, limiting practice to certain times of the year. Moreover, for people with joint issues or the elderly, such as those with arthritis, specific conditions are required, like water at the right temperature and additional safety measures. Also, although swimming may seem easy, doing it correctly requires technique. Poor posture or incorrect swimming style can lead to neck or lower back tension.

Despite these drawbacks, swimming remains one of the healthiest sports, as long as it is practised with proper technique and in the right conditions.

Tennis and padel

At a competitive level, tennis and padel can cause injuries if technique is not up to scratch. However, at a recreational level, with a basic fitness level, they are relatively safe. In fact, recent studies have shown that people who practise these sports tend to have a longer life expectancy. The only downside is that they require technical skill and should be complemented with flexibility exercises to avoid strain and injuries.

Cycling

Cycling is excellent for cardiovascular health and toning the legs, but it is not without risks. If you don’t maintain the proper posture, it can be detrimental to the lower back. Furthermore, road cycling comes with the risk of falls or accidents, especially if safety precautions are not taken.

Rowing / Canoeing

This is one of the most complete sports. It requires coordination, strength, flexibility, and precision, making it ideal for improving a wide range of physical skills. The main drawback is the lack of access to the required equipment, and like other sports, if not combined with flexibility and lower back strengthening exercises, it can lead to injury.

Functional training, gym, or calisthenics

These sports are often complementary to other activities as they focus on strength, flexibility, and endurance. However, they require a very personalised approach. Poor planning or execution of exercises can lead to injuries, both acute and chronic. That said, if done properly, they are ideal for improving overall fitness and can be adapted to any age or fitness level.

Conclusion: the best sport is the one you can maintain

Every sport has its risks and benefits, and there is no single answer. What’s most suitable for you will depend on your age, fitness level, time availability, and, of course, your motivation.

Just remember that the most important thing is to stay active. As the famous quote says:

“We don’t stop moving because we grow old, we grow old because we stop moving.

Chefs de Mission Seminar Begins in Skopje as Part of Preparations for EYOF Skopje 2025

Written by jose.rivas on . Posted in EOC, EYOF. No Comments on Chefs de Mission Seminar Begins in Skopje as Part of Preparations for EYOF Skopje 2025

The Minister of Sports, Borko Ristovski, emphasized the state’s support for organizing the biggest sporting event ever held in North Macedonia. Representatives from 49 European Olympic Committees have the opportunity to get acquainted with the organizational aspects, sports venues, and logistical capacities of the host cities Skopje and Kumanovo.

As part of the preparations for the European Youth Olympic Festival (EYOF) Skopje 2025, which will take place from July 20 to 26 in Skopje and Kumanovo, the Chefs de Mission seminar was officially opened today at the Holiday Inn Hotel in Skopje. The seminar will be held on April 9 and 10 and is attended by delegations from 49 European Olympic Committees.

Participants had the opportunity to learn more about the organizational aspects, sports venues, and logistical capacities, as well as the host cities of the largest sporting event in the history of North Macedonia. The Chefs de Mission seminar is one of the key milestones in the preparations for the festival, enabling the presentation of all aspects of the organization and the exchange of experiences with the delegations participating in EYOF Skopje 2025. For Skopje and Kumanovo, as host cities, this is a unique opportunity to demonstrate their readiness for such a large-scale sports event and to prove that North Macedonia can be part of the European and global sports map.

Before the official start of the seminar, speeches were delivered by Borko Ristovski – Minister of Sports, Daniel Dimevski – President of the Olympic Committee of North Macedonia and Liney Halldorsdottir – Chair of the EYOF Commission of the European Olympic Committees (EOC), who all emphasized the importance of the festival for youth sports and the international promotion of North Macedonia.

Minister Borko Ristovski highlighted the state’s support in organizing such a significant sports event.

“As a Government and Ministry, we are fully committed to enabling the successful organization of EYOF Skopje 2025 and to promoting true values among young people. This is more than just a sports event – it’s an investment in the youth, in sports infrastructure, and in the image of our country. I am confident that we will be excellent hosts and that in July we will see Skopje in its best light, ready to welcome the future stars of European sports,” said Ristovski.

The President of the Olympic Committee of North Macedonia, Daniel Dimevski, stressed the historical significance of the European Youth Olympic Festival for the country:

“This is an exceptional sports event, the biggest ever organized by our country, with nearly 4,000 participants and many guests and officials. From July 20 to 26, North Macedonia will become the center of sports in Europe, and we will have the privilege to host the best future European sports stars, many of whom will go on to become world and Olympic champions. This also opens up an opportunity not j+пust for international promotion of North Macedonia, but for a revival of youth sports at home. We expect around 200 Macedonian athletes to compete in all disciplines as hosts. Huge thanks to the Minister and the Government for backing this project – their support is essential for us to deliver an extraordinary sports event,” said Dimevski.

Chair of the EYOF Commission at the EOC, Liney Halldorsdottir, emphasized the importance of the seminar and the efforts of the local organizers:


“This seminar is essential – we are here to ensure all elements of the organization are of the highest standard. We are impressed with the progress and the commitment of the team in Skopje and Kumanovo. Although the Olympic Committee of North Macedonia joined the project only two years ago, a lot has been accomplished. This is both a challenge and a tremendous opportunity for your country,” Halldorsdottir noted.

Ahead of the festival, Skopje will also host a major event – “100 Days to EYOF”, which will take place at East Gate Mall on Saturday, April 12. This event will also provide support to families affected by the recent tragedy in Kočani, while the sports-entertainment part will include 3×3 basketball tournaments and a rich interactive program. The event will be a great opportunity for young people to experience the Olympic spirit and become part of the countdown to the start of the festival.

This summer, over 4,000 participants, including 900 volunteers, will take part in EYOF Skopje 2025, held from July 20 to 26. Competitions will be held in 15 sports: athletics, badminton, basketball, 3×3 basketball, canoe slalom, cycling, handball, judo, swimming, shooting, table tennis, taekwondo, volleyball, mountain biking, and gymnastics. During the festival, most competitions will take place in Skopje, while Kumanovo will host the cycling and basketball events. The unique sports atmosphere will be enriched by the gymnastics competitions held in Osijek, creating a true Olympic spirit across different locations.

One month to go until the Winter EYOF Bakuriani 2025 

Written by jose.rivas on . Posted in Bakuriani 2025, EYOF. No Comments on One month to go until the Winter EYOF Bakuriani 2025 

Today marks one month until the Opening Ceremony of the Winter European Youth Olympic Festival (EYOF) Bakuriani 2025, being held from 9-16 February 2025. 

Bakuriani 2025 will place Georgia firmly at the heart of winter sports as it hosts 2,000 of the most talented European athletes aged 14 to 18.  

Held across eight days, the Winter EYOF will bring together young athletes from across Europe, providing them with a first experience of a multi-sport event and the opportunity to embrace the Olympic values.  

The Opening Ceremony will be held at the Kids Ski Arena in Bakuriani on 9 February, featuring a parade of the athletes and the lighting of the Winter EYOF Bakuriani 2025 Cauldron with the Flame of Peace. 

The Flame of Peace was lit by Georgian athletes Anastasia Mirianashvili and Nikoloz Egadze, and the Bakuriani 2025 Organising Committee President Mamuka Khabareli at a spectacular ceremony in Rome last month. 

There are eight sports on the programme at Bakuriani 2025, with events taking place across three different cities in Georgia. 

Bakuriani will host biathlon, cross-country skiing, freestyle skiing, snowboarding and Alpine skiing. Ice hockey will be held at the Leader Arena in Tbilisi, while figure skating and short track speed skating will be held in Batumi.  

Georgia previously hosted a successful Summer EYOF in Tbilisi in 2015, but this year marks the first Winter edition held in the country. 

This image has an empty alt attribute; its file name is one-month-to-go-1024x1024.png

Karlos Nasar became the first Bulgarian to win gold medals at a European Championship, a World Championship, and the Olympic Games in the same year.

Written by jose.rivas on . Posted in EOC, Olympic Movement. No Comments on Karlos Nasar became the first Bulgarian to win gold medals at a European Championship, a World Championship, and the Olympic Games in the same year.

At the age of 20 years old, Nasar´s achievement have garnered international attention, with many considering him one of the most promising talents in weightlifting. Bulgaria is a country with a rich weightlifting history, which has been revitalized in recent years through the outstanding performances of this young athlete.


At the age of 16, Karlos earned silver in the snatch and total, and a gold medal in the clean & jerk event in the 2021 European Championship, establishing a European record of 206 kgs in the 81 kg category. In the same year, Nasar won the World Championships in the 81 kg category, setting a new record with a lift of 208 kgs and a total of 374 kg. And just one year later, he clinched the clean & jerk title in the 89 kg category at the World Championships in Bogotá, Colombia, with a world record lift of 220 kg at just 17 years old.


During 2023 European Championships in Yerevan, Armenia, Nasar broke five world records in the 89 kg division, including a 221 kg clean & jerk and a total of 395 kg. With each competition, each lift and kilo by kilo, Nasar was becoming a legend. However, during the same year, Nasar faced a significant leg injury that required surgery. He underwent rehabilitation under the guidance of his coach and returned to training, maintaining his competitive edge and continuing to break records port-recovery.


Less than a year later, the Bulgarian claimed the first medals of a golden year. During the European Weightlifting Championships, held in February in Sofia, Karlos secured three gold medals: snatch, setting a new World Junior Record with 176 kg, clean and & jerk and total.


In the same year, in his Olympic debut in Paris, Nasar won gold in the men´s -89kg event, breaking multiple world and Olympic records. Karlos Nasar lifted 180 kg in the snatch and a world record clean and jerk of 224 kg for a total of 404 kg, also a new world record.


And this was not all. In his final competition of 2024, World Championship in Manama, Bahrein, held in December, Nasar became the only male weightlifter to hold world records in two different categories. He set two world records at this tournament: 183 kg in the snatch and a total of 405 kg.


The next European Championships will take place in April 2025 in Chisinau, Moldova. Karlos Nasar will have a new chance to break again his own records.