Azernews.Az

By Amina Nazarli

The Presidential Cup test rowing competition in academic, kayaking and canoeing categories held the country’s Mingachevir region in April prior to the 2015 European Games brought together many talented national rowers.

Tamerlan Mustafayev, 21, is one of those professional rowers, who competed in the 1,000, 500 and 200 meters distances at the competition and wrote his name among those of the medal winners.

Despite his best efforts though the sportsmen could not bring home a gold medal. In an interview with the Azerbaijan National Rowing Federation he said he was however not discouraged about it.

“I took three medals in the 1,000, 500 and 200 meters distances. It is even better than I expected. As I concentrated all my efforts on long distance game, I showed poor results in the 200 meters distance. I tried my best, but unfortunately I could not manifest my efforts to win a gold. I believe that I will show good results in the next competitions," he said.

Talking about his main rival, Mirnazim Javadov, who is also his team mate, Tamerlan said, “We are competing in the same team. That’s why we are not rivals. I am very glad to train with such a strong rower.”

Tamerlan's participation in the 1st European Games to be held in the country in summer is not certain, as the federation is still considering his candidacy.

Even Tamerlan feels himself ready for the Baku European Games, he said that most likely Mirnazim will take part at the event. “I think that Mirnazim will participate in the Games, as he is older than me and has more experience."

Meanwhile, the federation is preparing for the World Cup and European Championship to be held in May.

Rowing developed quickly in Azerbaijan with the establishment of the National Rowing Federation (AMAF) in December 2006.

Being a member of the International Rowing Federation (FISA) and the International Canoe Federation (ICF), the AMAF participates in various international competitions and European and world championships at present.

Baku 2015 is the first ever European Games, an exciting and innovative multi-sport event for the continent which will take place from 12 – 28 June 2015.

There will be a total of 20 sports at Baku 2015 including 16 Olympic sports and four non-Olympic sports. More than 6,000 athletes from across Europe will be representing their nations over 17 days of competition.

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

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