site.btaPresident Iotova Presents Bulgarian Competitors in Down Syndrome World Championships with Honorary Plaque

President Iliana Iotova presented Bulgarian athletes, who competed in the Down Syndrome World Championships, with the President’s Honorary Plaque. The championships were held in Sofia in June under Iotova’s auspices. The Bulgarian News Agency (BTA) was a media partner of the competition.

She presented the award to Radena Angelova, captain of the team of athletes with Down syndrome.

Slav Petkov, President of the Federation for Adapted Physical Activity, and Radena Angelova presented Iotova with a set of medals from the World Championships.

“For me, today is one of the most exciting moments. Mr. Petkov and your team organized a unique championship and turned these days not only into a competition, but into a true celebration for the children. Today, the sun has shone in this hall because the sunny children are here,” Iotova said in her remarks, specifically thanking the coaches.

“Dear children, you are the heroes of Bulgaria, and we are proud of your achievements,” she added.

Nearly 400 athletes from 27 countries participated in the Down Syndrome World Championships. Bulgaria was represented by 20 competitors across all five disciplines — athletics, artistic gymnastics, rhythmic gymnastics, tennis, and table tennis.

Bulgarian athletes won 27 medals — 12 gold, 6 silver, and 9 bronze.

The next major championship to be held in Sofia will be the European Championship for People with Autism in March 2027.