Young Athletes from Odesa Shine at International Children's Games

Young athletes from Odesa have successfully returned from the 57th International Children's Games held this year in Tallinn, Estonia.

This year, the games brought together around 900 participants from 70 cities worldwide, with Odesa making its debut.

The competition featured 7 sports: 3x3 basketball, beach volleyball, judo, swimming, athletics, fencing, and soccer.

The Odesa athletes competed in swimming and 3x3 basketball, showcasing impressive results.

The first medal for the Odesa team was earned by Anastasia Marina, who won gold in the 50-meter butterfly swimming event.

Ivan Riaduiev took first place in the 100 meters freestyle with a new personal best and Ukrainian record of 51.86 seconds.

In the mixed relay (composite style), the Odesa team finished 5th out of 28 teams.

In the 3x3 basketball competition, both the boys' and girls' teams successfully advanced from the group stages to the playoffs.

Since the inaugural International Children's Games in 1968, a touching tradition of exchanging souvenirs has emerged, fostering pride as athletes from 73 cities across 28 countries showcase their flags.

The International Children's Games embody more than just sports; they represent friendship, unity, respect, and new connections.

Odesa expresses immense gratitude to its Estonian partner, Tallinn, for facilitating this sports exchange for young athletes.

The participation of the Odesa team in the 57th International Children's Games was made possible with the direct support of the Department of International Cooperation, Culture, and Marketing, as well as the Department of Physical Culture and Sports of the Odesa City Council.