This past weekend, Odessa became the center of a major sports event — the National Rowing Championship of Ukraine. 

The event gathered a record number of participants: 32 teams from various regions of the country, including veterans and active military personnel. For the first time in the history of Ukraine, two teams of children with developmental disabilities (autism, cerebral palsy, Down syndrome) participated. 

Odessa's Mayor, Gennadiy Trukhanov, opened the championship with an emotional speech, emphasizing the profound significance of the event. 

«This is not just a competition. It is an example of indomitable spirit. You have already won — over pain, loss, and injury. And today, smiling, you show everyone that life goes on», - the Mayor addressed the veterans.

The Mayor added that Odessa is like a Ukrainian mother, welcoming everyone for rehabilitation and relaxation. 

Gennadiy Trukhanov also announced the participation of the Odessa veterans’ team in the legendary Venice Regatta, which has been held for over 700 years. A boat with the Ukrainian flag will symbolize the resilience and dignity of our country on the international stage. 

The head of the Ukrainian Federation of Marine Multi-Sports, Dmytro Stepnov, expressed his admiration for the level of organization and the importance of the championship:

«This is not just rehabilitation for veterans — it's a rehabilitation for our society. Veterans are role models for the youth, and we already have the first trainers among them. What is happening in Odessa is a dream come true», - noted Dmytro Stepnov.

During the event, a letter of thanks was presented to Mayor Gennadiy Trukhanov and Vitaliy Holodko — the head of the Odessa division of the federation — for their significant contribution to the development of adaptive rowing among military personnel. 

The championship was organized with the support of the NGO «Barrier-Free».