I am truly delighted to be here with you today, in this jubilant, almost electric atmosphere, as we send our athletes off to Paris. We hope for the best results possible!
These are special Games, as they mark 100 years since the first ever participation of Team Latvia in the Summer Olympic Games, which took place in 1924 in Paris. At that time, there were 41 athletes representing Latvia, while this time around our delegation is a little bit smaller – 29 athletes. Similarly, both then and now, our hopes and expectations are high. I am aware that all of you have given your utmost effort to make it to these Olympic Games. I am confident that you will leave it all out there and perform to the best of your ability.
I would like to express my utmost gratitude to you, your coaches, to those who have helped you daily, and of course to your families for their support. There is no doubt in my mind that throughout the Olympic Games, no matter which discipline you are competing in, Latvia will be rooting for you. We will be cheering for you. Should you not achieve the results you hoped for – there will be some criticism, but we will not take it to heart. Because it all comes from emotion, it comes from the fact that people truly support you and care for you.
When establishing the modern Olympic Movement, Baron Pierre de Coubertin, set out the key principles of peace, fair competition, youthfulness and success. It is regrettable that the Olympic Games are not held during the most peaceful of times. There was a moment, even a discussion – what should be done about it? Nevertheless, I believe that your presence at these Games with your spirit of sportsmanship, with your values will serve to demonstrate that even in challenging circumstances, it is possible to cherish and hold the ideals high. It will be a great privilege and honour for me to be with you in Paris in 11 days at the opening ceremony of the Olympic Games. I will be rooting for every single of you.
I wish you all strength, vigour and, of course, a little bit of luck.
