It is not easy to summarize all the events you see and hear on the eve of the opening ceremony of the Paris Olympics. This is because we are about to witness a global sports celebration. Among the more than 10,000 athletes who have arrived to compete, the Turkmenistan national team holds a worthy place. That is why recording these moments requires great responsibility.
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The preparations for the Summer Olympic Games in Paris, set to begin on July 26, 2024, have been completed. In the Olympic Village, athletes are preparing to welcome the Olympic flame, which will arrive on July 26. The Turkmenistan sports delegation is also getting ready for this significant moment. Despite being busy with training sessions and the ongoing organizational efforts of the delegation members, preparations for this important sporting event continue uninterrupted.
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Our most experienced Olympian is Valentina Meredova. She previously competed in the Beijing Olympic Games. After stepping away from sports, she has made a remarkable comeback to the track. Since the beginning of 2024, Valentina Meredova has been actively preparing for this crucial challenge, having broken Turkmenistan’s national record in the 60-meter sprint.
It is truly inspiring to see her dedication to training and how she serves as a role model for young athletes. Competing in the Olympics for the second time in a career is no small feat. That is why, as she shares, she is putting in every effort to make the most of this opportunity.
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Although Tokuno Kazuhiko is a Japanese coach, one might think he is Turkmen. This specialist, who has quickly adapted to Turkmen customs and even learned some local phrases, is often called "Coach." Tatyana Vladimirovna (Vidyasova) and Tokuno Kazuhiko conduct training sessions at the Complexe Sportif Auguste Delaune. Watching Serdar Rahimov and Maysa Pardaeva step into a new world of possibilities after starting their training is truly inspiring.
It was also very gratifying to hear from the members of Kazakhstan’s judo team that Turkmen wrestlers are considered serious competitors. We wish them all great success!
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Musa Jalaev and Aynura Primova resemble two unique worlds, unlike each other. It is evident that they flawlessly follow all the instructions of their coach, Dmitry Novikov, even outside of training sessions. The composed and thoughtful Aynura, along with the cheerful and energetic Musa Jalaev, remain true to their personalities both in training and in the Olympic Village. Seeing Musa’s passion for everything and Aynura’s determination, one can only hope they have a long streak of success in their sports careers.
Hojaberdy Apbaev
Paris, France.
