Azernews.Az

By Amina Nazarli

The 36th Congress of the International Canoe Federation (ICF) kicked off in Baku on November 24, bringing together more than 200 delegates from 89 countries.

The event featured the election of the president and vice presidents of the International Canoe Federation, as well as chairpersons responsible for canoe sprint, canoe slalom and canoe-marathon. The member federations also reviewed a report on the implementation of the ICF`s 2016-2020 development program, and consider proposals of the Board of Directors, Executive Committee and the national federations.

President of the Azerbaijan National Rowing Federation Elchin Zeynalov, addressing the event, said the country was proud to host the Congress. He also highlighted accomplishments of Azerbaijani rowers at international events, including at Olympic Games.

Speaking about the activity of the Federation, Zeynalov said that it marks its 10th anniversary this year.

"In 2009, our team won medals in rowing at the World and European championships. In the 2016 Rio Summer Olympics, we have won the silver and bronze. In general, over 10 years, our athletes won 17 gold, 24 silver and 13 bronze medals in the international arena,” he said, emphasizing that Azerbaijan continues to work effectively for the development of this sport.

Zeynalov, talking to reporters on the sidelines of the Congress, informed that Baku may host the European and World Champions in canoe in the future.

"Last year, kayak and kanoe sports were included in the list of competitions held within the Baku 2015 European Games. These competitions were held in Mingachevir region of the country. However, in order to hold the European and World Championships we need a canal and this canal should be constructed in Baku," he said.

The hotel capacity and other features of the capital are better adapted for the reception of many guests and the organization of such large-scale sporting events, according to the president of the Federation.

"That's why such kind of championships should be held in Baku. Certain work is carried out in this direction. No doubt, in case of creation of the canal in Baku, the city will be able to hold European and World Champions," he said.

Zeynalov also spoke about the probability of Azerbaijan’s joining the Executive Committee of the ICF.

"The Executive Committee is represented by four people from every continent, including Europe. In the future, Azerbaijan can also offer membership in the Executive Committee, but now this is not expected," he added.

Talking about the development of kayak and canoe sports in Azerbaijan and organization of prestigious international competitions, the ICF President told reporters that the country has high level infrastructure for the organization of international competitions.

"You have very potential rowers in a canoe. During the 1st European Games I got acquainted with the conditions in Mingachevir. The Center has very good infrastructure, but for organizing prestigious events, I prefer Baku," Perurena Lopez said.

The second day of the Congress will feature the election of the president and vice presidents of the International Canoe Federation, as well as chairpersons responsible for canoe sprint, canoe slalom and canoe-marathon.

The member federations will also review a report on the implementation of the ICF`s 2016-2020 development program, and consider proposals of the Board of Directors, Executive Committee and the national federations.

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Amina Nazarli is AzerNews’ staff journalist, follow her on Twitter: @amina_nazarli

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