Sportsman’s Day marked with paratroopers and national wrestling

CHISINAU, May 20, 2011 — Deputy Minister of Defense, Igor Panfile attended Friday, May 20, the opening ceremony of the Sportsman’s Day held on Dinamo stadium from Chisinau.

The Deputy Minister of Defense congratulated sportsmen on the holiday, wishing them to be victorious in everything they do. Igor Panfile appreciated this holiday as one of the most important republican sports events due to the complexity of the competition.

„The Sportsman’s Day proves Republic of Moldova Government’s support to raise young people’s interest towards competition and victory in different sports genre”, the Deputy Minister of Defense said. „I would like to point out that people wearing military uniforms are committed to physical training, which is a basic element of their professional development. Hence, I am sure this competition will become more popular in the course of time for the goal of any kind of sports is to promote friendship and fair-play”.

The event, organized by the Ministry of Youth and Sports, the Ministry of Defense and the Ministry of the Interior, started with a flag-raising ceremony and the anthem of Republic of Moldova. The flag of the country was raised by the European champion, weight lifter Oleg Sirghi, and Irina Gilca, winner of the bronze medal at the world youth championship. The entrance to the event was free. People had the opportunity to watch some exercises of sword and epee handling, Taekwondo, elements of air acrobatics and national singers performing.

Sports competitions started with the national fight „Trinta” (Wrestling). The traditional award for winners was a cock and a buck. Then, the participants showed some sword and epee handling exercises, Taekwando and air acrobatics elements. Paratroopers jumped from a military airplane of the National Army. After landing, people applauded to appreciate their talent and good skills. Citizens also watched the National Army Guard of Honor performing. Children from Kindergarten No.225 of Ciocana sector of Chisinau took part in an athletic race and rode the bicycle on a 100-meter distance.

The Sportsman’s Day was marked for the 13^th time in the Republic of Moldova due to a Government decision. Similar events were held in most districts of the country.