Baku, Azerbaijan, Feb.18,
Trend:
"The FIG World Challenge Cup in Artistic Gymnastics to be kicked off on February 19 is being held in Azerbaijan for the first time," Vice-president of Azerbaijan Gymnastics Federation Altay Hasanov told Trend Agency on February 18.
According to him, it is a very serious Cup in terms of the status.
"We deserved it, because Azerbaijani gymnasts began to achieve success in Artistic Gymnastics. We have long been at the top in Rhythmic Gymnastics and always competed with the strongest teams. We are taking our first steps in Artistic Gymnastics and as you see, these steps have been quite successful: they recognized us and came here," the vice-president said.
He noted that therefore, as usual, Azerbaijan is expected to hold the competitions at a high level from the organizational point of view.
Hasanov added that today's Orientation Meeting with the heads and representatives of the delegations, which have arrived in Baku for the FIG World Challenge Cup also proved it, so they had practically no questions.
"It also shows that the Federation and the Local Organizing Committee are very well prepared," he said.
Hasanov further said that the Federation expects good performance from the Azerbaijani athletes.
"It is just the beginning of the season. Our most important start at the Olympic Games in Rio is ahead. Holding competitions in Baku is a good factor. Because, it is not always easy for the athletes to perform at home, as it requires high responsibility. Therefore, let them have such a test prior to more important starts, such as the European Championships and Olympic Games," he said.
The AGF vice-president also noted that given the country's experience in hosting major competitions in Rhythmic Gymnastics, holding the World Challenge Cup in Artistic Gymnastics in Baku could bring great benefits.
"We gain experience, our athletes compete with the world's leading gymnasts who come to Baku with great pleasure. It has long been no secret that Baku is turning into a kind of sports capital of the region, since the city hosts competitions and meets guests at a very good level," Hasanov said.
He voiced belief that all guests leave the country satisfied.
AGF vice-president further expressed his confidence that the athletes and representatives of delegations, who have arrived in Baku, will leave the country, with positive emotions as always.