Ildar Khalikov opens Championship of Russia on judo in Kazan

Championship of Russia on judo has started in Kazan. RT Premier Ildar Khalikov took part in a festive ceremony that took place in Palace of single combats “Ak Bars”.

Championship of Russia on judo is a qualifying competition to form a membership of national team for European and World championships. 545 sportsmen from 60 Russian regions are taking part in current competitions. 23 wrestlers represent Tatarstan Republic. The championship will last from August, 31 to September, 4.

Ildar Khalikov thanked organizers for choosing Kazan to hold Championship of Russia – 2011. “It is extremely important on the threshold of Universiade-2013 so that our sportsmen, our young generation, future participants of student games can gain invaluable experience from the best sportsmen in the country”, - I.Khalikov said.

Head of Tatarstan Government stressed that whole Russia is presented at the current tournament. Sportsmen from every corner of the country arrived to take part in competitions.

Ildar Khalikov separately thanked sponsors of competitions. He wished sportsmen to put up a good performance at Championship of Russia and keep pleasant memories about Kazan.

President of Judo Federation of Russia Vasily Anisimov thanked Tatarstan leadership for well-organized competitions. “Championship of Russia is an important event for our country. Here we see participants of future Olympic Games”, - V.Anisimov stressed.

Head of Judo Federation of Russia announced competitions opened, anthems of Russia and Tatarstan sounded and first competitions of Championship of Russia started on tatami of Palace of single combats “Ak Bars”.