"After seeing my loved ones here together, I feel like I have become even younger."
Idman.biz reports that this was said by Ahmaddin Rajabli, a well-known Azerbaijani sports veteran and former judoka, who is celebrating his 80th birthday today, in an interview with AZERTAC.
The Honored Coach, who said that he has been retired for 13 years, stated that he is happy for the appreciation given to his efforts in the development of sports: "It is good that they do not forget sports veterans and remember them on such days. My friends, with whom I fought shoulder to shoulder, are here now. We used to have healthy competition with them. But we have also been such good friends and confidants. Thank God that as a result of the efforts of me and my colleagues, Azerbaijani judo has repeatedly made its mark on the world stage."
He wished success to Azerbaijani youth involved in sports and motivated them to always work on themselves: "May they always wave the Azerbaijani Flag at the highest levels. Let them be strong and determined. Let there be no discouragement as soon as they experience defeat. This is the worst quality for an athlete. Let them believe in themselves, let them not be afraid of anything from anyone."
Idman.biz