Odessa Hosts a National Sports Gala: Ukrainian Championship in Marine Multisport
This past weekend, Odessa became the hub of a national sporting event — the Ukrainian Championship in marine multisport.
The event attracted an impressive number of participants: 32 teams from different regions of the country, including veterans and service members. For the first time in Ukraine's history, two teams of children with developmental disabilities (autism, CP, Down syndrome) participated in the championship.
Odessa's mayor, Hennadiy Trukhanov, opened the championship with an emotional speech, emphasizing its importance and significance.
«This is more than just a competition. It represents an unyielding spirit. You have already triumphed over pain, loss, and injuries. Today, with smiles, you show everyone that life goes on,» the mayor addressed the veterans.
He also added that Odessa is like a Ukrainian mother, welcoming all for recovery and relaxation.
Trukhanov announced the participation of the Odessa veterans' team in the legendary Venice Regatta, which has been held for over 700 years. A boat flying the Ukrainian flag will symbolize our nation's resilience on the international stage.
Dmytro Stepnov, head of the Ukrainian Marine Multisport Federation, expressed admiration for the level of organization and the significance of the championship:
«This is not just veterans' rehabilitation — it is the rehabilitation of our society. Veterans are role models for the youth, and we already have our first coaches among them. What is happening in Odessa is a dream come true,» Stepnov noted.
During the event, a letter of appreciation was presented to Mayor Hennadiy Trukhanov and Vitaliy Holodok — head of the Odessa branch of the federation — for their significant contributions to the development of adaptive rowing among service members.
The championship was organized with the support of the NGO «Barrier-Free».
