Dear athletes of Latvia, Lithuania and Estonia,
Dear fans, friends and family,
I
I am very honoured to be able to attend the President’s Cup in Athletics for the first time, even though this tradition dates back to 1995.
II
Today’s competition will take place in an especially joyful atmosphere. I believe that all of us — not only Valmiera residents and athletes, but all Latvians, Estonians and Lithuanians alike — feel joy and pride that we can meet for the first time here in the renovated Jānis Daliņš stadium.
I am truly impressed with the stadium. Valmiera is the sports capital of Latvia, it is the Olympic Centre of Latvia. We are grateful to the local government of Valmiera Municipality, all residents of Valmiera, and, of course, extensive state support for Valmiera to become such a centre. Its importance is even broader as it is the Olympic centre of the whole of Latvia and the Baltics.
The environment which is in line with all modern standards is inclusive and supportive, therefore we will certainly also see our para-athletes train here, some of whom are already leaving today to represent Latvia at the Paralympics in Tokyo.
III
Yet it is also important and symbolic that this infrastructure will be available for active leisure and popular sports enthusiasts of all ages. To anyone who wants to lead a healthy lifestyle.
Latvia’s first Olympic medalist race walker Jānis Daliņš, whom this stadium is named after and who was a local of this municipality, began training in race walking as an enthusiast. Walking through these near-by woods, he walked himself to an Olympic Silver medal, Ambition and a strong will allowed him to set world records and gain international recognition. His achievements and unabating passion turned many of his contemporaries to race walking, leaving a great impression on future generations as well.
IV
Dear audience, Dear athletes,
The Baltic States are each other’s closest neighbours, friends and allies.
This competition among Baltic athletes traditionally symbolises our common road to excellence. With the newly introduced Youth Prize we are looking to the future, bringing together the new generation of athletes in the framework of our three countries. Perhaps in future, even more countries could participate in this competition.
I thank all the athletes who are taking part in this event! I thank all the spectators, fans, coaches and race organisers! I thank, once more, the municipality for creating the opportunity for all of us to be together here, on this beautiful evening, at the President’s Cup competition at Jānis Daliņš Stadium!
I wish success to all the athletes and an exciting competition to view to all the spectators and fans!
God Bless Latvia!