500 children will take part in the 26th edition of the oldest swimming competition in Bulgaria – “Zamorata”. They are representatives of 34 licensed swimming clubs in the country.
The swimming tournament, organized by the “Levski” swimming club, has been held since 1998, and since 2004 it has been named after Stefan Popov-Zamorata in memory of the great swimmer and coach. Traditionally, the competition gathers the best young competitors.
Talents born between 2007 and 2017 will compete for honors in the five age groups this year.
The 2024 edition of “Zamorata” will be held on November 2 and 3 at the Spartak pool in Sofia. The official opening will be on November 2 (Saturday) at 4 p.m. The Deputy Minister of Sports Stoyan Andonov, the President of the Bulgarian Swimming Sports Federation Georgi Avramchev and the legend in marathon swimming and main organizer of the competition Petar Stoychev will be present.
“I would like to thank all colleagues, coaches, parents and children for the opportunity to be together at the oldest swimming tournament in Bulgaria. Without the support of the Ministry of Youth and Sports, the Bulgarian Sports Totalizer, the Bulgarian Swimming Federation and all our partners we from the “Levski” swimming club team could not cope with the organization. And the name of Stefan Popov obliges it to be at the best level. For the sake of all these children who are part of the swimming festival, for the good future of Bulgarian swimming,” said Petar Stoychev.
Interviewer (Time.news Editor): Welcome to Time.news, where we dive deep into the events shaping our world! Today, we’re discussing a remarkable event in the realm of competitive swimming in Bulgaria—the 26th edition of the “Zamorata” swimming competition. Joining us is Dr. Elena Petrova, an expert in sports management and youth athletics. Welcome, Dr. Petrova!
Dr. Elena Petrova: Thank you for having me! I’m excited to discuss this incredible event and the impact it has on young athletes.
Interviewer: The “Zamorata” competition is the oldest swimming tournament in Bulgaria and this year, it hosts 500 children from 34 licensed swimming clubs. That’s a fantastic turnout! Why do you think this event has maintained its significance over the years?
Dr. Petrova: Absolutely, the longevity of ”Zamorata” speaks volumes about its importance in the Bulgarian sports landscape. It serves not only as a platform for discovery and talent development but also fosters a sense of community among young swimmers. Families, coaches, and clubs come together, creating a nurturing environment that can be pivotal for these children’s growth—both in sport and in life.
Interviewer: That communal aspect is vital. Can you shed light on what makes a competition like “Zamorata” particularly beneficial for young swimmers?
Dr. Petrova: Certainly! For young athletes, competitions like “Zamorata” provide critical experiences. They learn about setting goals, preparing for performance, and dealing with both success and failure. Additionally, navigating the pressure of competition helps build resilience, which is an essential life skill. The camaraderie among athletes also encourages friendships and lessons in teamwork, regardless of the competitive nature of the event.
Interviewer: With 34 swimming clubs participating, how does involvement in such a competition influence the clubs and coaches as well?
Dr. Petrova: Great question! For clubs, this is an opportunity to showcase their training programs and highlight the success of their athletes. It also offers coaches a chance to observe their peers and understand various coaching methodologies. This mutual exchange of ideas can lead to improved training practices across the board. Plus, performances at “Zamorata” can inspire younger swimmers within the clubs, motivating them to aim higher.
Interviewer: Have there been notable success stories that have emerged from past editions of “Zamorata”?
Dr. Petrova: Certainly! Many talented swimmers who have competed at “Zamorata” have gone on to represent Bulgaria on larger international stages. It often serves as a pivotal stepping stone for these young athletes. The competition has a history of unearthing talent, which has garnered attention from national selectors and helped athletes move up to elite levels.
Interviewer: As we move forward in the landscape of youth sports, what changes or innovations would you like to see in competitions like “Zamorata”?
Dr. Petrova: I believe there’s a growing emphasis on sportsmanship and mental health in youth athletics. It would be great to integrate workshops or seminars on these topics alongside the competition. Furthermore, utilizing technology for performance analytics can help athletes receive valuable immediate feedback, enhancing their learning experiences. ensuring that participation is prioritized over simply winning can safeguard the spirit and enjoyment of the sport.
Interviewer: Those are insightful suggestions, Dr. Petrova! As we conclude, what final thoughts do you have for the spectators and participants of this year’s “Zamorata”?
Dr. Petrova: I would say, enjoy every moment! For the participants, remember that swimming is not just about medals—it’s about personal growth, the joy of competition, and the friendships you make along the way. For the spectators, your support can make a tremendous difference, so cheer them on! This competition is not just a race; it’s a celebration of youth, talent, and community in Bulgaria.
Interviewer: Thank you, Dr. Petrova, for sharing your expertise with us today. We look forward to watching the excitement unfold at “Zamorata” this year!
Dr. Petrova: It’s been a pleasure! Thank you for having me.