I’m happy to see a new Muslim nation hosting a major multi-sport Games.
Azerbaijin gained independence from the Soviet Union in 1991. Did not have a constitution until 1995. They’ve come a long way in twenty years. It’s a success story.
On the other hand, President Ilham Aliyev is more dictator than elected leader.
Human Rights Watch recently blasted Azerbaijan.
I’m hoping Sport will help that nation move more quickly forward. They’ll be a bright spotlight on Baku during the Games. It could be good for those working towards human rights.
The National Gymnastics Arena will be the competition venue and is home to their National Teams.
Here’s a recent press release:
Test trainings for gymnasts were held at the National Gymnastics Arena on May 18-19 in anticipation of the first Baku European Games 2015 – to be held in the county this summer.
Altay Hasanov, the vice-president of the Azerbaijan Gymnastics Federation, who attended the event, said Azerbaijan expects a celebration of gymnastics during the First European Games.
Hasanov reminded all that the Gymnastics competitions at the European Games will be held on June 14-21. As many as 28 gymnasts will represent Azerbaijan at the European Games.
“The European Games will, for the first time, be held in Baku, here is where the history of the European sport will begin,” Hasanov said. “We very much want to succeed at the European Games and everyone expects this to be a success – the fans and the federation. We’ve gathered here to see the level of preparation of our athletes.” …
Baku, where history of European sport begins, says Gymnastics Federation VP
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Gymnastics Coaching.com 