Vladimir Maksimov, President of the Children of Asia International Committee, received the first ever award from the Russian Anti-Doping Agency (RUSADA) «For Contribution to Anti-Doping in Sport». RUSADA Director General Veronika Loginova presented the honour to the agency.
According to Veronika Loginova, the idea to present such an award arose during her visit to the Children of Asia Games, and the Yakut diamond became the symbol of the anti-doping fight.
«The idea of presenting such an award arose during the Children of Asia Games in Yakutsk after we learnt about the republic's history and wealth. It is very symbolic that the award is represented as a diamond, which symbolizes the firm, unshakeable confidence to fight against doping and provide fair competitions. It is as pure, I am sure, as the intentions of all athletes taking part in the Children of Asia Games. In the future, we will continue this tradition», - the head of the department said.
Vladimir Maksimov expressed his gratitude for the appreciation of the work done. He also noted RUSADA's special contribution to the educational programme on anti-doping rules and the quiz «Play Honestly» during the 6th International Forum of Young Olympians on 28-30 June in Yakutsk. About a thousand young participants of the 8th Children of Asia Games took part in the programme.
«This is a great indicator and a crucial contribution to building a culture of zero tolerance of doping among young athletes. The International Committee's hosting of such events is a huge effort to make athletes feel confident and assured that they are competing in fair competition. We are endlessly grateful to the committee for understanding the problem and paying attention to such an issue as building intolerance to anti-doping rule violations», Veronika Loginova said.
RUSADA Director General also mentioned that today the cooperation with the Children of Asia International Committee is one of the most productive among many sports event organizers. Since 2022, a huge number of useful projects for young athletes, including educational programmes on anti-doping rules, have been implemented together with the committee.