Ahead of their competitions at the Paris Paralympics, Bulgaria's Paralympic athletes received a rousing message of support from Olympic legend Stefka Kostadinova, President of the Bulgarian Olympic Committee (BOC).
In a video conference call with the nine-strong Bulgarian delegation, including athletes, coaches, and staff, Kostadinova delivered a powerful message of encouragement. "Bulgaria is behind you! I want to send you strength, faith and immense energy for the upcoming competitions," she said.
"I'm not speaking to you as a leader, but as an athlete who understands the importance of support," she added, highlighting her personal connection with the challenges faced by the athletes. Kostadinova, herself a former world record holder in the high jump, expressed confidence in the team's abilities, stating she believes all three athletes are capable of achieving new sporting triumphs.
Bulgaria will be represented by three track and field athletes: Ruzhdi Ruzhdi, Hristiyan Stoyanov, and Stela Eneva.
Ruzhdi, a Paralympic champion from Rio 2016 and silver medalist from Tokyo 2020, will compete in the men's F55 shot put event at 8.05 p.m. on August 30. The F55 classification is for athletes with full arm function, partial trunk function, and no lower limb function.
Eneva, a Paralympic vice-champion from both London 2012 and Rio 2016, will compete in the women's F57 discus throw at 11.08 a.m. on August 31. F57 is a classification for athletes with limb deficiencies not covered by other classifications.
Stoyanov, a Paralympic vice-champion from Tokyo 2020, will compete in the men's Т46 1,500 metres competition at 11.58 a.m. on August 31. The T46 classification is for athletes with a single below or above the elbow amputation.
Kostadinova's message of support came as a welcome boost for the Paralympic athletes. "Words like these, coming from a legend of Bulgarian and world sport, mean a lot," said Ruzhdi Ruzhdi. "It gives us strength and confidence, and motivates us to do our best."
As the Bulgarian Paralympians prepare for their competitions in Paris, they will undoubtedly draw on the unwavering support from their nation and the inspiring words of their Olympic heroine.