United World Wrestling President Commends Mongolia's Passion for Wrestling

Nenad Lalovic

By Ch.KHALIUN

The first Olympic Games World Qualifying Tournament for Rio 2016 in freestyle wrestling and Greco Roman was held at Buyant-Ukhaa Complex in Ulaanbaatar from April 22 to 24. Over 650 wrestlers from 80 countries competed for 48 available Olympic qualification.

Following the conclusion of the tournament, News.mn spoke with president of the United World Wrestling (UWW) Nenad Lalovic regarding the organization of the tournament and other matters related to wrestling.

How would you evaluate the Olympic qualification tournament organized in Mongolia for the first time?

This year is amazing for sportsmen. Everyone is waiting for the Olympic Games that will be held in Brazil in few months. Especially, it is a very responsible time for all sportsmen. This year's competition for Olympic qualification for Rio 2016 is being organized twice, one of which was successfully held in Mongolia. Over 600 wrestlers from 80 countries made the tournament very competitive. I thank the Mongolian Wrestling Federation for successful organization of the event. I am grateful to all people who helped and provided support for organizing the tournament, including the Government of Mongolia. For the first time, an intense competition for Olympic qualification took place in Ulaanbaatar, and 48 wrestlers received their qualification.

Wrestlers from many countries have gathered in Mongolia for the first time and they all competed for Olympic qualification. What is your impression of Mongolian wrestlers?

Top freestyle wrestlers came to Mongolia. Young wrestlers also participated in the tournament, showing great performances. In recent years, achievements of Mongolian wrestling teams are advancing. This time, Mongolian wrestlers competed for three Olympic quotas, but they didn't win them. However, the next opportunity will be provided at the tournament in Turkey. I felt that Mongolians really do love wrestling...