Chisinau, Moldova  

The ceremony award for the best Moldovian athletes of 2001 was organized in Chisinau by the National Olympic Committee of Moldova and this year's sponsor was Loteria Moldovei (INTRALOT is a major shareholder of Loteria Moldovei).

Among the guests of the ceremony were the Prime Minister of Moldova Mr. Vasili Tarlief, the Minister of Finance Mr.Mihai Manoli, the Minister of Education and Research Mr. Ilie Vancea, as well as, a significant delegation of the Moldovian Parliament.

The President of Moldova’s NOC and twice Gold Olympic medallist in Canoe - Kayak, Mr. Nicolae Zuravski focused his speech on the positive impact that sports have in the new generation and outlined the necessity in nowdays to support the Olympic spirit. Furthermore, he concluded his speech by pointing out the significant role of lotteries funds in the financing of sports worldwide.

It's worth mentioning that in the ceremony the following athletes and coaches were awarded: 1.Mr. Genadi Tulbea, Best athlete of 2001 - European champion in freestyle wrestling 2.Ms.Irina Erhan, Best Youth athlete of 2001 - World champion in Sambo 3.Mr.Vladimir Oleinic, Best Youth athlete of 2001 - Silver medal in the European Youth Championship of 2001 in freestyle wrestling. 4.Mr.Nicolae Oreol, Best coach of the Olympic team in freestyle wrestling and 5.Mr.Aleksei Colin, Best coach of the Youth Team in Judo.