Vessela Letcheva, former Minister of Youth and Sports and current member of the IOC Commission, was awarded for her contribution to the development of ski sport in Bulgaria during the official ceremony marking the centenary of the ski federation.
As chairwoman of the State Agency for Youth and Sports (SASS), Letcheva launched the “Learn to Ski” social programme. It has been functioning for 15 years and in this period 40 000 children have been trained through it.
As head of the sport in 2008, Vessela Letcheva believed in and helped launch this idea, which continues to this day, the ski federation noted.
“Thank you for this recognition. You can be proud of history, a success that leaves a golden mark not only in the sporting history of Bulgaria, but also of the world. Be proud, pass on to your followers your dedication and love for this beautiful sport. Let us wish Bulgaria to host the Winter Youth Olympic Games. We have proved that we can be successful hosts of championships of the highest world rank,” said Vessela Letcheva.
Several generations of skiers, coaches and leaders were honoured at the ceremony.
Photos from the event can be found in the GALLERY.
