This weekend, Odessa became the center of a monumental sporting event — the National Championship of Ukraine in yachting sports, featuring both men and women.

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

Odessa's Mayor Gennady 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 unbreakable spirit. You have already triumphed over pain, loss, and injury. And today, with smiles, 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 rest.

Gennady Trukhanov also announced the participation of the Odessa veterans team in the legendary Venetian 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 Yachting Sports, Dmitry Stepnov, expressed his admiration for the level of organization and the significance of the championship:

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

During the event, a letter of appreciation was presented to Mayor Gennady Trukhanov and Vitaly Holodko — the head of the Odessa branch of the federation — for their significant contributions to the development of adaptive yachting among military personnel.

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