Today we conclude nine days of hard work. This camp – the first of its kind – became possible thanks to the close cooperation with our friends, the Olympic Council of Asia and the International Skating Union. The results of our joint efforts have proven that such initiatives are of great importance for the development of youth sports. We now have a solid foundation to organize similar camps in other disciplines, giving even more young athletes the opportunity to gain such invaluable experience.
I would like to extend my special gratitude to our coaches, lecturers, and organizers, who throughout these days have invested their knowledge, energy, and hearts into the participants. Your dedication is the foundation on which future victories are built. Thank you for your commitment to sport.
Dear young athletes! Over these days you have been constantly on the move — on the ice, in classrooms, and in communication with one another. During this time, you not only honed your skills, but also made new friends from across the continent. I am confident that each of you will take away from Harbin not only new skills, but also faith in yourselves and in your dreams. The knowledge and experience you gained here will serve you well not only in sport, but also in life, helping you overcome any challenges. Remember: great sport begins with small steps. May your perseverance and love for figure skating lead you to new heights.
Finally, I would like to express sincere thanks to our colleagues from China — the Chinese Olympic Committee, the Chinese Figure Skating Association, the Government and the Sports Bureau of Harbin — for their impeccable organization and warm hospitality. Harbin will forever remain in our memory as the city where champions are born.
