Key projects and mission of the Children of Asia Games Alumni Union was presented during the 6th Athletes Forum of the Olympic Council of Asia in Astana. The event became an important platform for strengthening ties between generations of athletes and presenting large-scale development programs.
The CAIC President Vladimir Maksimov opened the presentation. In speech, he emphasized the Alumni Union as a powerful tool for preserving legacy of the Games and continuity of sports traditions. "The Alumni Union is not just a community, it is a big family united by a love of sports. Our goal is to create an effective mentoring system where successful athletes, who themselves began their journey at Children of Asia Games, will help new generations to reveal their potential," said Vladimir Maksimov.
The projects were presented by the CAIC Deputy Secretary General Sardaana Zhendrinskaia.
The presentation was also attended by alumni — Ms. Madina Bakbergenova, Champion of Asia in freestyle wrestling and Mr. Maxim Rakov, Champion of the world and Asia in judo Maxim Rakov. They shared their personal stories about how participation in Children of Asia Games became a springboard into big-time sports for them and made an impact on their careers.
Maxim Rakov emphasized the special role the Games made on in his personal development: “Children of Asia Games became my launchpad into the world of big sports. I remember how worried I was and how I had no one to ask for advice. Now, within the Future Champion project, my colleagues and I are doing what I lacked in my youth: sharing invaluable experience with the new generation — not only technique, but also the correct psychological attitude. This is our investment in the future of world sports.”
Madina Bakbergenova spoke about the opportunities provided by the Alumni Union: “I have been involved in freestyle wrestling for 14 years, and my first international competitions were the Children of Asia Games, which gave impetus to great victories. Back then, young athletes did not have the opportunities that they have today thanks to the Alumni Union. Now, the Children of Asia Games alumni including world and Olympic champions, conduct master classes for children and share their experience. It is the mission of the Alumni Union — experienced athletes contribute to children's sport. I am very grateful to follow this path and support children's sports together.”
The speakers also mentioned specific projects of the Union aimed at educational programs, career support for athletes after completing sports career, and organizing international sports projects.
Ms. Lilia Akhaimova, Chair of the Alumni Union, Olympic champion in artistic gymnastics sent her video greeting for the Forum's participants.
Let us remind you that all athletes who took part in Children of Asia Games of different years, regardless of citizenship, gender and age, can, if they wish, take part in the Children of Asia Games Alumni Union". For that it is necessary to submit an application via email http://alumni@cagic.org.
