European Games

Maryanyan, Chekhirkin Headline Greco Semifinalists at European Games

By United World Wrestling Press

MINSK, Belarus (June 28) - A pair of returning world champions for Russia were among the dozen wrestlers to reach the semifinals on the opening day of Greco-Roman competition at the European Games in Minsk, Belarus.

Russian wrestlers Stepan MARYANYAN (60kg) and Aleksandr CHEKHIRKIN (77kg), world champions in Budapest, advanced to tonight's semifinals in Greco-Roman. 

Maryanyan, a European Games champion in 2015, faced some stiff competition in the opening session. In his first match, he wrestled returning world silver medalist and European champion Victor CIOBANU (MDA). The 27-year-old Russian proved to be too much for Ciobanu as he picked up a 9-1 technical superiority in the first period. 

Next up for Maryanyan was two-time junior world champion Kerem KAMAL (TUR). Maryanyan grinded out a 5-2 victory over Kamal. Tonight in the semifinals he will face Zhora ABOVIAN (UKR), who defeated 2013 world champion Ivo ANGELOV (BUL) in the quarterfinals.  Dato CHKHARTISHVILI (GEO), a 2016 junior world champion, will battle Erik TORBA (HUN) in the other semifinal at 60kg.

Chekhirkin was pushed in his first match against Daniel ALEKSANDROV (BUL), but prevailed 3-3 on criteria. He then shut out world No. 8 Alex KESSIDIS (SWE) 6-0 I the quarterfinals. Chekhirkin faces Yunus BASAR (TUR) in the 77kg semifinals.

Tamas LORINCZ (HUN), a 2012 Olympic silver medalist and three-time world medalist, reached the semifinals at 77kg with a 10-2 technical superiority in his first match followed by a 3-1 quarterfinal win over Pavel LIAKH (BLR).

At 67kg, Shmagi BOLKVADZE (GEO), a U23 world champion and junior world champion, earned his spot in the semifinals with a 2-0 win in the quarterfinals over world No.7 Mate NEMES (SRB). He meets Karen ASLANYAN (ARM), a gold medalist at the Henri Deglane Challenge, in the semifinals. 

Zaur KABALOEV (RUS) edged Soslan DAUROV (BLR) on criteria to reach the semifinals at 67kg, where he will face Oleksii KALINICHENKO (UKR).

Russia has the most semifinalists on Friday with three. Ukraine, Hungary, Georgia and Armenia all have a pair of semifinalists, while Turkey has one. 

SEMIFINAL MATCHUPS

Greco-Roman

60kg
Zhora ABOVIAN (UKR) vs. Stepan MARYANYAN (RUS)
Erik TORBA (HUN) vs. Dato CHKHARTISHVILI (GEO) 

67kg
Oleksii KALINICHENKO (UKR) vs. Zaur KABALOEV (RUS)
Shmagi BOLKVADZE (GEO) vs. Karen ASLANYAN (ARM)

77kg
Yunus BASAR (TUR) vs. Aleksandr CHEKHIRKIN (RUS) 
Tamas LORINCZ (HUN) vs. Karapet CHALYAN (ARM)
 

Development

More than Medals Asia 2024 wraps up in Jordan

By United World Wrestling Press

DEAD SEA, Jordan (July 31, 2024) - The "More than Medals Asia 2024" training camp, organized by United World Wrestling in cooperation with the Jordan Wrestling Federation, was held from June 26 to July 3, 2024, at the Grand East Hotel on the Dead Sea, Jordan. This camp aimed to provide a platform for wrestlers and coaches from various countries to come together, exchange experiences, and enhance their skills in the sport of wrestling.

Participation
A total of 35 wrestlers and coaches from six countries actively participated in the training camp. The diverse representation added to the cultural exchange and enriched the learning experience for all participants.

Training Sessions
The training sessions were expertly led by UWW Educator and two-time Olympian Hassan Madany from Egypt. His vast experience and expertise provided invaluable insights and guidance to the young athletes. Through a combination of practical drills and theoretical lessons, participants were able to enhance their skills, techniques, and understanding of wrestling, making significant progress in their development.

Antidoping Seminar
As part of the camp, an antidoping seminar was conducted by officials from the Jordan National Anti-Doping Agency (JOR NADA). The seminar aimed to raise awareness about antidoping regulations and promote clean and fair competition among the athletes. Participants gained valuable insights into the importance of maintaining integrity in sports.

Lecture on Wrestler Nutrition
Prof. Dr. Ahmed Al-Tamimi from the University of Baghdad's College of Physical Education and Sports Sciences delivered a comprehensive lecture on wrestler nutrition during and after competition. Dr. Al-Tamimi, who also led the Iraqi team at the camp, shared his extensive knowledge on dietary strategies to optimize performance and recovery. The lecture provided participants with practical advice and scientific insights, equipping them with the necessary tools to manage their nutrition effectively throughout their wrestling careers.

Coach Course
Hassan Madany also conducted a comprehensive coach course, offering theoretical material from UWW coach courses. The session included discussions on training methods, athlete safety, and the quality of coaching. Coaches had the opportunity to engage in meaningful dialogue, exchange best practices, and explore strategies to enhance their coaching skills and better support their athletes' development.

Sightseeing Tou
Participants enjoyed a sightseeing tour to the famous Mount Nebo, the memorial of Moses. They explored the historical site and appreciated its significance. The tour included a lunch at a restaurant with a stunning view of Mount Nebo, offering a perfect blend of cultural enrichment and relaxation. Additionally, the participants had the opportunity to learn about the local history and traditions, enhancing their overall experience of Jordan's rich heritage.

Conclusion
The 2024 More than Medals Asia training camp in Jordan was a resounding success, providing invaluable experiences and learning opportunities for all participants. Participants expressed their happiness and satisfaction with the camp, noting the positive impact it had on their development and team spirit. This camp not only focused on athletic development but also on cultural exchange and personal growth.

We extend our gratitude to the Jordan Wrestling Federation for their support and cooperation in organizing this event. The success of this training camp highlights the importance of such initiatives in promoting the development of wrestling in Asia. We look forward to continuing our efforts to support and nurture young wrestling talents in the region.