Kristjan Čeh and 167 others to represent Slovenia at Mediterranean Games

Slovenia is set to compete with a substantial delegation of 168 athletes at the upcoming Mediterranean Games in Taranto, Italy. The multi-sport event, which kicks off on Friday and runs until September 3, presents a significant opportunity for Slovenian athletes to showcase their talents on an international stage.

Franjo Bobinac, president of the Slovenian Olympic Committee (OKS), addressed the athletes, expressing confidence in their abilities. "I am convinced that you will represent Slovenia excellently and show everything you are capable of," he stated. Bobinac highlighted the Games' importance, describing them as "the Olympics in miniature" due to the participation of countries from three continents: Europe, Africa, and Asia. He also emphasized the social impact of such events, noting that "in today's world, sport and Olympism are what connect us and point us to the true values."

The Mediterranean Games serve as a crucial platform for both emerging and seasoned athletes. For many younger competitors, it offers valuable experience at a major event, while for experienced athletes, it's a chance to hone their form for larger competitions. Among the seasoned competitors are the shooting siblings Boštjan and Jasmina Maček. Younger talents include Eneja Ozbič Primc, a multiple-time Slovenian bowler of the year despite her young age.

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Za slovenskimi športnicami in športniki je izjemno poletje številnih rekordov, zmag in drugih odmevnih dosežkov. Pred nami pa so že novi izzivi v obliki sredozemskih iger. Prepričan sem, da boste Slovenijo odlično zastopali in pokazali vse, kar zmorete.

Several athletes are heading to Taranto after recent European championships. This includes European discus champion Kristjan Čeh and gymnast Teja Belak. Belak, who aims to rebound from a disappointing performance at the European Championships in Zagreb, expressed anticipation for the Games' atmosphere. "I've already put the European Championship behind me somewhat; I have a new competition in a week, which I'm actually looking forward to. I expect a different energy at the Mediterranean Games, not that the competition doesn't mean as much, but it feels more relaxed," she said.

The Slovenian contingent will also feature the women's U18 national football team, marking its debut in the Mediterranean Games. Captain Lara Kavaš is optimistic about their prospects, stating, "Women's football is at the Mediterranean Games for the first time. We've had excellent preparations, so expectations are high. I expect us to go far." Slovenia will be represented across 29 of the 32 sports disciplines.

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V današnjem svetu je šport in olimpizem tisti, ki nas povezuje in nam nakazuje prave vrednote. Simbolika sredozemskih iger je v teh časih zato pomembna.