On 19 January, President of Latvia Egils Levits visited the Sigulda Bobsleigh and Luge Centre where he presented a presidential medal to long-time manager of the Centre, former bobsleigh athlete, skeleton coach and Latvian skeleton pioneer Dainis Dukurs.
‘Mr Dukurs brought this global phenomena to Sigulda, and now Sigulda is one of the leading hubs around the globe. We admire his life-long contribution to development of winter sports in Latvia. Dainis Dukurs has dedicated his life to pursuit of best sporting standards, while raising two excellent boys and outstanding athletes in their own right. I wish you all the best!’ President of Latvia Egils Levits said as he presented the medal.
Dainis Dukurs, who is also a recipient of the Order of the Three Stars (in 2012), launched Sigulda Sport Academy’s most recent informal education programme Skeleton Academy in 2021. This programme enables young and talented skeleton athletes prepare for their international career and representing Latvia globally. Dainis Dukurs will celebrate his 65th birthday on 24 January this year.
After discussion about the future of Sigulda Bobsleigh and Luge Centre, President watched skeleton athletes practice on the artificial start ramp, after which he met with Martins and Tomass Dukurs and Markuss Vinogradovs who shared insights into their preparation for Beijing Winter Olympics. He also met with young athletes in Skeleton Academy programme. ‘I am delighted to visit Sigulda bobsleigh and skeleton track shortly before the opening of the Beijing Winter Games. The whole Latvia will watch you compete. We know our chances are good and you will fight to get as high as you can,’ President Levits said.
Today is also the official date for the announcement of the Olympic Team. Latvian Olympic Committee will announce the members of the national team going to XXIV Winter Olympics, which will take place in the capital of China, Beijing, from 4 February to 20 February 2022.
