The European Weightlifting Championships have officially been opened at the Sport Centre Gripe in Split.
Although the competitions began on Saturday, Sunday afternoon hosted the program for the opening ceremony which was attended by many guests from the world of sports and politics, including many current and former athletes, reports Slobodna Dalmacija on April 2, 2017.
Around 500 guests and spectators attended the ceremony which was opened by State Secretary for Sports, Janica Kostelić. Also in attendance was the Mayor of Split-Dalmatia County Zlatko Ževrnja, Mayor of Split Ivo Baldasar, Envoy of Kolinda Grabar-Kitarovic Tomislav Madžar, President of the Croatian Olympic Committee Zlatko Mateša, and President of the European Weightlifting Federation Antonio Urso.
“Croatia is known as a country of great athletes, but also as the host country of major sporting events. I am convinced that we are awaiting a very interesting competition here in Split, and also that the people of Split will once again prove to be exemplary hosts. I promulgate this competition open,” said Kostelić, as an envoy on behalf of the Croatian government and Prime Minister Andrej Plenković.
The entertainment and music program was led by Mirta Šurjak and Joško Elezović. Performances were held by klapa "Cambi”, the “Evergreen" band, Đani Stipaničev, and members of "Clique" and "Crowd control" dance studios.
The European Weightlifting Championships will take place in Split through April 8. The championships will host 275 competitors from 41 countries and 15 Croatian male and female weightlifters. The competition will be broadcast in 65 countries around the world with an estimated 90 million viewers.
The championship is wonderful promotional for both the city of Split and Croatia.
