Azernews.Az

By Amina Nazarli

The Intercontinental Judges’ Courses in Men’s Artistic Gymnastics of the International Gymnastics Federation (FIG) kicked off in Baku on February 6.

President of the FIG Men'sTechnical Committee Steve Butcher, speaking at the opening ceremony, welcomed the course participants and introduced the members of the organizing committee. He thanked the Azerbaijan Gymnastics Federation (AGF) for the excellent organization of the event.

“Azerbaijan is one of the main countries in FIG history that support all measures and activities of the organization. Keep up the excellent work, thank you for the organization of courses. I am sure that our expectations are met, because Azerbaijan knows how to conduct the event,” he said.

AGF Secretary General Farid Gayibov also addressed the participants, wishing them good luck and expressed confidence that the training will be successful.

"These courses are held in Azerbaijan for the second time - the first was held in 2007. We have previously held intercontinental and international judicial FIG courses in rhythmic gymnastics. They were very successful, and we expect the same from these courses. I wish you good luck," said Gayibov.

The course to last until February 9 involves 66 judges from 17 federations. Azerbaijan is represented by 6 people.

Moreover, Baku will host the 34th European Men's Artistic Gymnastics Championship on May 6-10, 2020.

The winners of the tournament will get licenses for the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, according to the AGF.

Azerbaijan has already hosted three Rhythmic Gymnastics European Championships in 2007, 2009 and 2014. The capital city will hold the European Trampoline Championship in 2018.

Baku annually welcomes World Cup rounds at the National Gymnastics Arena, which also give license points for participation in the Olympic Games.

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

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