June 4, Tbilisi. (MSY) --- The first session of the coordination council on youth policy development took place at the State Chancellery of the Government of Georgia. The Council was set by the decision of the Government of Georgia the month before.

3rd June. Tbilisi. (MSY) --- Minister Levan Kipiani hosted the members of the national youth water-polo team (under 17) which qualified to the European Championship 2013 to be held in Malta. The Minister congratulated sportsmen with their success and wished future high performances on the international level.

31 May – 1 June. Sassari, Italy. Georgia’s wrestling national team gained 3 Gold, 1 Silver and 1 Bronze medal at the International Tournament Golden Grand Prix, which took place in Italian city.

(UEFA.com) --- Kakhaber Kaladze ends his playing career in a gala farewell match in Tbilisi on Friday, starring former team-mates Andriy Shevchenko and Paolo Maldini. UEFA.com looks back at his career.

29-30 May, Tbilisi. (MSY) --- Ministry of Sport and Youth Affairs of Georgia with support of the EU Commission (TAIEX) has organized two-day workshop on Spectators Violence and Misbehavior for the local officials from governmental and legislative institutions as well as for the representatives of sports federations.

(UEFA.com) --- Second-half goals from Giorgi Pantsulaia and Guram Samushia steered Georgia to a 2-0 victory against Belgium and booked their place at July's final tournament in Lithuania.

Tbilisi, 25-26 May. (MSY) ---- XVIII International dancesport competition Caucasus cup 2013 will take place at the sports complex “ARENA”. The organizer of the event is the Georgia’s National Dancesport Federation. Partners are: Ministry of Sport and Youth Affairs of Georgia, World DanceSport Federation, Georgia’s National Olympic Committee.

Baku, May 12. Georgia`s Minister of Sport and Youth Affairs Levan Kipiani has arrived in Azerbaijan for a visit aimed at exploring prospects for strengthening the bilateral cooperation in the field of youth and sports.

Lima, Peru. 2-11 May. (MSY) --- World Weightlifting Youth Championship 2013 in Lima, Peru has been completed. At the age of 19, Georgian athlete Lasha Talakhadze made his dream came true by getting the first place in the category (+105 Kg), adding for a total 411 kilograms. This result was obtained due to the first 190 kg  – lift (snatch) and 221 kg (clean and jerk).

FC Dinamo Tbilisi have now won league titles under Dušan Uhrin Jr and Dušan Uhrin Sr, after a 4-0 win against FC Torpedo Kutaisi set the seal on their 14th post-independence title. Dušan Uhrin Jr has steered FC Dinamo Tbilisi to their 14th post-independence Georgian championship with two matches to go, five years after his father Dušan Uhrin Sr led the club to their 13th success.

Tbilisi, 2 May (MSY) --- At the extraordinary session, Georgia’s Olympic Committee members decided that Georgia’s Olympic team will take part in the 2014 Olympic Games in Sochi, Russian Federation.

Kairat Almaty became the first Kazakhstani team to claim a UEFA title with their triumph in Tbilisi – and did it the hard way with thrilling wins against FC Barcelona and MFK Dinamo.

For Georgia it was a great start of the Adidas European Championships 2013 taking place in Budapest (25-28 April). Georgia continues the success of last year but now already with two gold medals at the first day.

Georgia hosts its first European final tournament from Friday when the UEFA Futsal Cup kicks off at the Tbilisi Palace of Sport. The UEFA Futsal Cup, Georgia's first final tournament, starts in Tbilisi today.

Tbilisi, 25 April. (MSY) --- Memorandum of Cooperation has been signed between Public Defender Office of Georgia and the Ministry of Sport and Youth Affairs (MSY) of Georgia. The document was ratified by Public Defencer Ucha Nanuashvili and Minister Levan Kipiani (MSY).

Tbilisi, April 25. Minister of Internal Affairs Irakli Gharibashvili and Minister of Youth and Sports Affairs Levan Kipiani have signed memorandum on cooperation.

Tbilisi, 24 April. The Memorandum of Cooperation between company SOCAR and the National Olympics Committee of Georgia was signed at the head office of the Representation of the State Oil Company of Azerbaijan Republic in Georgia.

Tbilisi, 22 April. (MSY) --- Memorandum of Cooperation has been signed between Georgian Ministry of Defence (MoD) and Ministry of Sport and Youth Affairs (MSY) of Georgia. The document was ratified by Minister Irakli Alasania (MoD) and Minister Levan Kipiani (MSY).

  Georgia, Tbilisi. April, 14. (MSY) --- Official opening ceremony of the one-month youth festival “Students’ Days 2013 against drugs” was held at the “Vake Park”. The festival is initiated by the Ministry of Sport and Youth Affairs of Georgian and it is expected that about 1000 students throughout the country will take part in the program.

Cyprus, Limassol, April 12-14. (MSY) --- Georgian National Sambo Team successfully participated in Youth and Juniors European Sambo Championship which took place in Limassol.

Turkey, Istambul. April 5-7. (MSY) ---- 4th World Level Shotokan Karate Championships (WLSKC) ended with a great success for Georgian Team. The athletes gained 11 Gold, 12 Silver and 27 Bronze medals in a sum. There were 110 athletes representing Georgian Team.

Georgia, Tbilisi. April 8 (MSY) --- Georgia finished atop the Group A qualification round for the 2014 European Men's Waterpolo Championship. Georgia, the host of the qualification round, has garnered 10 points from four matches - 3 wins and 1 draw.

Tbilisi, April 5. (MSY) --- Minister Levan Kipiani and Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China H.E. Mr. Chen Jianfu visited Tbilisi Youth Olympic Village site which has been constructing for the Summer Youth Festival Tbilisi 2015 by the China’s developing group.

On 23-24 March, European Junior and Senior Sumo Championship took place in Germany, Ponitz (Schleswig-Holstein). Georgian was one of the 17 countries participating in the tournament. Our team got 11 medals in a sum. Georgian Junior (under 18) sumo wrestlers gained 6 medals: 3-gold, 1 – silver, 2 – bronze and senior sumotoris – 2 gold and 3 silver medals.

Georgia, Tbilisi. March, 25. Minister Levan Kipiani hosted H.E. Mr. Chen Jianfu, Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China to Georgia, at the Ministry of Sport and Youth Affairs. The sides discussed issues of mutual co-operation in sports between the two countries.

Georgia, Tbilisi. March 24. On the closing ceremony of the European Wrestling Championship Tbilisi 2013 an action addressing International Olympic Committee to “Save Olympic Wrestling” took place. Participants of the action put signatures on the banner in support to save wrestling sport category on the 2020 Olympic Games. The banner was placed in the Tbilisi Sports Palace.

Georgia, Tbilisi. March 24th. On the final day of the competitions of the European Wrestling Championship 2013 Georgian team’s members – Mr. Vladimer Gegeshidze (84kg) and Zurab Datunashvili (74kg) won silver medals in Greco-Roman wrestling. In Greco-Roman wrestling teams’ ranking Georgia took the 3rd place, the 2nd place – Bulgaria and the 1st place in the list took Russian wrestling team.

Georgia, Tbilisi. March 23rd. On the 5th day of the ongoing European Wrestling Championship 2013 winners and medalists in four weigh categories in Greco-Roman wrestling became known. Georgian Team won the only bronze medal; Mr. Guram Perselidze won the match for the 3rd place with Ioseb Chugoshvili (Belarus) – 1:0, 2:1.

Georgia, Tbilisi. 22nd March. On the 4th day's matches of the European Wrestling Championship 2013 leader of the Georgian National Wrestling team Mr. David Marsagishvili won gold medal and became the European Champion in 84kg freestyle. In the final match Marsagishvili defeated Musa Murtazaliev from Armenia with 2:0; 2:0 scores. That was the final day for freestyle wrestling matches on EWC Tbilisi 2013.

Georgia, Tbilisi. 21 March. On the 3rd day’s matches of the European Wrestling Championship 2013 Georgian National Wrestling team won the only bronze medal, Mr. Geno Petriashvili (120kg) in freestyle wrestling defeated Nick Mathuchin from Germany with 4:2, 5:0 score.

Georgia, Tbilisi. 20 March. On the ongoing European Wrestling Championship 2013 winners in 4 weight categories in the freestyle became known. On the 2nd day of the tournament the sportsmen in 55 kg and 60 kg and sportswomen in 51kg and 59kg played their matches in the “Tbilisi Sports Palace”. Mr. Giorgi Edisherashvili became the first wrestler from Georgian National Team who got the gold medal and took the first place on the pedestal.

Georgia, Tbilisi. 19 March. The first day of the matches of the ongoing European Wrestling Junior Championship – Tbilisi 2013 is over. In “Tbilisi Sports Palace” the champions and medalists of three weight categories in freestyle wrestling became known. In 66 kg weight category among men Armenian David Sapharian defeated Turkish sportsman Yakup Gor and won the first gold medal on the tournament. In 96kg final match Ukrainian Pavlo Oleinik won fight over Polish Stanislav Skaskievich. Among women in 48kg weigh category the strongest was Russian sportswoman Valeria Chepsarkova, she became the European Champion

Georgia, Tbilisi. 18 March. General Assembly of European Council of Associated Wrestling (CELA) took place at “Radisson” Hotel. The event was held in the framework of current European Wrestling Championship – Tbilisi 2013. Among other important issues in the agenda there were election of CELA Executive Board and election of CELA President for the next few years.

Romania, Bucharest. 16 March.  Since the opening round back in February, Division 1A of the European Nations Cup has been building to this. On Saturday, unbeaten Georgia travel to face Romania in Bucharest, with the hosts also yet to taste defeat and eager to put one over their great rivals in the race for Rugby World Cup 2015.

Georgia ensured that captain Irakli Abuseridze went off into retirement in style with an emphatic 61-18 victory over Spain in Tbilisi on Saturday to remain unbeaten in the European Nations Cup 2014 Division 1A after four rounds.

  Georgia, Tbilisi. 7 March, 2013. Presentation of the youth program “Students’ Days 2013” took place at Georgian National University. The Ministry’s officials introduced students the planned activities in the scope of the program, which will take place from 14th April to 25th May throughout Georgia. This year students from different universities will compete in sport, cultural and intellectual activities.

Georgia, Tbilisi. On February 27, Minister of Corrections and Legal Assistance of Georgia (MCLA) - Mr. Sozar Subari and Minister of Sport and Youth Affairs of Georgia (MSY) - Mr. Levan Kipiani signed the bilateral memorandum of cooperation for the purpose of promoting inmates re-socialization and crime prevention.

Georgia, Tbilisi. On February 25th, Kirsan Ilyumzhinov, President of World Chess Federation (FIDE) arrived on a two days business visit to Tbilisi. In the capital of Georgia Mr. Ilyumzhinov met with Mr. Levan Kipiani, Minister of Sports and Youth Affairs of Georgia.

Georgia, Tbilisi. February, 18. Mr. Gari Kasparov, world class chess master arrived in Tbilisi for a business trip. In the frames of the official visit, Ministry of Sport and Youth Affairs of Georgia hosted Mr. Kasparov. Joint press-conference for journalists was held at the Ministry. Zurab Azmaiparashvili, the firs deputy Minister and Mr. Kasparov informed the public on launching a pilot chess learning program in public schools of Georgia.

  Georgia, Tbilisi. The capital of Georgia hosted National Boxing Championship 2013 from 11th to 14th of February. 90 boxers from the regions of Georgia gathered at the Judos Academy for the competitions. There were fights in 10 weight categories.  

Georgian National Team defeated Albania 2:1 in a friendly match.

Georgia, Tbilisi. February 6. Minister Levan Kipiani hosted his Excellency  Ambassador Plamen Bonchev at the Ministry of Sport and Youth Affairs of Georiga. The parties discussed issues regarding cooperation between two countries in the fields of sport and youth.

No big surprises in Day 1 of the ENC1A!, the three Eastern countries have won against Western countries from Europe. Results are very tight and will give an uncertain issue of this top Division of FIRA-AER European Nations Championship.

Georgia, Tbilisi. January 31. Georgian sport newspaper “LELO” organized the best sportspersons award ceremony. The event took place in the cultural center “MUZA”. Based on the results of a pool published on the newspaper’s website, the editorial board brought out 2012 best sportspersons.

Georgia, Tbilisi. January, 31. Minister Levan Kipiani hosted successful Georgian figure skater Mrs. Elene Gedevanishvili after her performance at the European Championship in Zagreb, Croatia.  Mrs. Gedevanishvili took 14th place at the tournament.

Georgia, Tbilisi. January, 30. The first meeting of the Advisory Board of the Ministry of Sport and Youth Affairs of Georgia took place, after Minister Levan Kipiani initiated establishment of the board earlier this year. Among main responsibilities of the board are: work out strategic papers and plans on sport development in Georgia, amendments for national sports laws, as well as recommendations for sport federations and organizations.

Georgia finished the first in UEFA Futsal EURO 2014 preliminary round Group B after Moldova was unable to win Malta with big scores difference. Georgia advanced to the next stage of the Championship for the first time and will be joined in the main round by England, Greece, Montenegro, Norway and Sweden.

Georgia, Tbilisi. January, 24. Press-conference on Georgia’s participation in Special Olympic World Winter Games, PyeongChang 2013 (South Korea) held at the Ministry of Sport and Youth Affairs of Georgia.

Georgia, Tbilisi. January, 23. Zurab Azmaiparashvili, First Deputy Minister of Sport and Youth Affairs of Georgia and Gia Giorgadze, President of Chess Federation of Georgia held joint press conference at the Ministry.

Georgia, Tbilisi. January 9. Ministry of Sport and Youth Affairs of Georgia organized annual sports award ceremony at Tbilisi Event Hall. The Olympic Champion of 2012 London Games, judoka Lasha Shavdatuashvili was awarded with the title of the best sportsman of 2012 by the decision of Ministry of Sport and Youth Affairs.

Georgia, Tbilisi. December, 20. Election of the new president of the Georgian National Olympic Committee (NOC) took place in “Sheraton Metekhi Palace”. Majority of the delegates with the right to vote elected Mr. Leri Khabelov for the next four years.

Georgia, Tbilisi. December 14. Minister Levan Kipiani met representatives of local non-governmental organizations at the Ministry of Sport and Youth Affairs. Minister introduced the audience Mr. Irakli Jorjoliani, new Director of the “Children and Youth Development Fund of Georgia”.

Georgia, Tbilisi. December, 14. Minister Levan Kipiani introduced Mrs. Ketevan Peikrishvili, a new director of LEPL “Pupils and Youth Palace of Georgia” to the staff of the organization.

Georgia, Tbilisi. December, 13. Minister Levan Kipiani hosted Scottish Charles Ross Raeburn - representative of international school sports federation and sports expert at the Ministry of Sport and Youth Affairs. The sides have discussed issues related to the development of sports education system in Georgia.

Georgia, Tbilisi. December, 12.  Honorable Mr. Sándor Szabó, Ambassador of the Republic of Hungary in Georgia paid an unofficial visit to the Ministry of Sport and Youth Affairs of Georgia.  Ambassador met Minister Kipiani and passed him a letter of congratulation from his Hungarian colleague.

Georgia, Marneuli. December, 11.  Officials of the Ministry of Sport and Youth Affairs of Georgia met local NGOs’ representative at the Marneuli Democratic Inclusion Center. Rati Bregadze, Deputy Minister and Nugzar Kandelaki, Head of Youth Affairs Department of the Ministry presented at the informational meeting.

The 9,540 Tbilisi Palace of Sports will stage the UEFA Futsal Cup finals in late April involving home club Iberia Star Tbilisi, holders FC Barcelona, MFK Dinamo and Kairat Almaty.

On December 1st, Mr. Giga Chikadze won European Champion's belt in Thai Boxing (IRO version). The match took place in Amsterdam (Netherlands), Chikadze defeated Hisham Bubrar, Dutch sportsman in 72.5 weigh category.  

Georgia, Tbilisi. On December 4th, Minister Levan Kipiani hosted Georgian junior chess players - Mrs. Nino Khomeriki and Mr. Giorgi Sabashvili at the Ministry of Sport and Youth Affairs. The Minister congratulated players with success they have gained in Maribor (Slovenia) at the World Youth Chess Championship 2012.

29 November, 18:00 pm. Minister Levan Kipiani will meet heads of the Georgian football clubs playing in the 1st league. Venue: Tbilisi, 9 Cholokashvili ave., Ministry of Sport and Youth Affairs of Georgia

Two-day National Championship in free-style wrestling took star on November 27th in Tbilisi. There were performed matches for 4 weight categories on the first day of the tournament. Mr. Giorgi Edisherashvili from Tbilisi won gold medal in 55kg.

26 November, Tbilisi. The Ministry of Sport and Youth Affairs of Georgia initiated a meeting with local NGOs representatives. Rati Bregadze, Deputy Ministry and Nugzar Kandelaki, head of the youth affairs department met youth NGOs representatives.  

  Georgia, Tbilisi. International Rugby Board members - Mark Egan, head of development and performance committee, Graham Mourie, chairman of rugby committee and Richie Dixon, head of IRB development team had several days official visit in Tbilisi.  

Georgia, Tbilisi. November 21. Tamaz Tevzadze, Deputy Minister of Sport and Youth Affairs of Georgia held a meeting with heads of Georgian sport federations and representatives of local media.

Georgia, Tbilisi. On November 14, Rati Bregadze, Deputy Minister hosted David Gvineria, Child Protection Officer, Adolescent and Youth Development at UNICEF Georgia. They have discussed issues regarding future collaboration between two organizations in the field of youth development.

Georgia, Tbilisi. On 14th of November, Minister Levan Kipiani and his deputies hosted Sambo National Team members and representatives of the Georgian SAMBO Federation. The Minister congratulated sportspersons on gained success at the World Championship.

Nugzar Kandelaki is appointed to the position of the Head of Youth Department of the Ministry of Sport and Youth Affairs of Georgia.

November 6, Tbilisi. Levan Kipiani, newly appointed Minister of Sport and Youth Affairs of Georgia, introduce his deputies at the press conference, held at the Ministry.

On 25th of October, newly elected Georgian Parliament's members (elections were held on 1st of October, 2012) appointed new Government.

 

Giorgi Sakandelidze, a Georgian free style wrestler wins 3 international tournaments during past 3 weeks. Sakandelidze in -120 kg weight category won competitions in Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan and Russia.  

"Iberia-Starts", Georgian champion in futsal defeated 6:1 Italian team "Luparence" in Elite Round. This was the first game of the championship in group D, which is being held in the capital of Georgia.

Georgia, Gori Rergion. 25th September, A new Literature Youth Club was open in Karaleti, populated mainly with internally displaced persons. There was set a settlement of IDP's from the South Ossetia Region, after the war in 2008.  

LEPL Children and Youth National Centre with Chairman of Jewish Eurasian Congress General Council and Ethnos Relations Committee representative on 4th of September  signed the Memorandum of Understanding.

Geogia, Tbilisi. 30th August. "European Council's Summer University in Georgia" was officially closed at the Sheraton Methechi Palace Hotel. Youth workers, non-governmental and governmental, as well as international organizations' Representatives from 30 countries participated in the Summer University.

At the Olympic Games Georgian athlete Giorgi Gogshelidze won bronze medal in free style wrestling (-96kg). It is the second Olympic Games Gogshelidze wins bronze medal.

David Marsagishvili - 21-years-old Georgian athlete in free style wrestling (84kg) won bronze medal at the Olympic Games.

Manuchar Tskhadaia a 27-years old Georgian wrestler got bronze medal on the Olympic Games.

6 August, 2012. London, UK. Georgian athlete Revaz Lashkhi got silver medal on the Olympic Games in G/R wrestling -60kg weight category.

On the 3rd of August, Raul Tsirekidze (85kg) weightlifter had a performance and took second place in B group.In his first attempt he lifted 162kg weight and after he requested 167kg and was failed.

Ministry of Sport and Youth affairs of Georgia declares that the accusation of political coalition "Georgian Dream" and judoist Betqil Sukvani is false.

For Nino Salukvadze the second discipline was not successful as well, though she had better chances to participate on 1st of August competition in sport pistol shooting 25 meters, then 29th of July shooting with pneumatic pistol 10 meters.

Annual Edition "Sport and Youth 2007" is a report for all important activities and events happend during 2007 in Georgia and abroad with participation of Georgian athlets and yougsters. The Edition is published by the Ministry of Sport and Youth Affairs of Georgia. The edition is bilingual in Georgian and English languages.

Annual Edition "Sport and Youth 2010" is a report for all important activities and events happend during 2010 in Georgia and abroad with participation of Georgian athlets and yougsters. The Edition is published by the Ministry of Sport and Youth Affairs of Georgia. The edition is bilingual in Georgian and English languages.

Annual Edition "Sport and Youth 2007" is a report for all important activities and events happend during 2007 in Georgia and abroad with participation of Georgian athlets and yougsters. The Edition is published by the Ministry of Sport and Youth Affairs of Georgia. The edition is bilingual in Georgian and English languages.

Annual Edition "Sport and Youth 2008" is a report for all important activities and events happend during 2008 in Georgia and abroad with participation of Georgian athlets and yougsters. The Edition is published by the Ministry of Sport and Youth Affairs of Georgia. The edition is bilingual in Georgian and English languages.

Annual Edition "Sport and Youth 2007" is a report for all important activities and events happend during 2007 in Georgia and abroad with participation of Georgian athlets and yougsters. The Edition is published by the Ministry of Sport and Youth Affairs of Georgia. The edition is bilingual in Georgian and English languages.

Lasha Shavdatuashvi - Georgian athlete brilliantly conducted the day and earned the Olympic gold medal in 66 kg weight category. He became the youngest Olympic champion in Judo.  

David Tatalashvili wrestling judoist in 73 kg weight category defeated and withdrew from the Olympic tournament in first round.

Georgian Football Federation with support of the Ministry of Sport and Youth Affairs finished C category coach training program which was led by the Spanish Specialists.

In recent days, several media outlets have spread the information about Georgian Olympic athletes to be awarded with USD 1,200,000 for gold medals at the London 2012 Olympic Games. The Ministry of Sport and Youth Affairs of Georgia declares that this information does not reflect the reality.

On July 25th, the main part of Georgian Olympic team and Georgian delegation - Minister Vladimir Vardzelashvli with Deputy Ministers and President of Georgian National Olympic Committee Gia Natsvlishvili have flown to London.

Georgian National Olympic Team

Georgia, Tbilisi. On 23rd of July, The President Mikheil Saakashvili met Georgian Olympic Delegation at the President's Palace. The President addressed the sportspersons and wished good luck at the XXX Summer Olympic Games, London.

On 23rd of July, a one day Paralympic festival took place in Tblisi at Turtle Lake sport complex. More than 300 disabled amateur sportspersons participated in the event.

Portugal, Algarve.  Georgian Rugby Seven national team took 4th place at RWC Sevens Qualifier and got the access to participate in the 2013 World Cup. The tournament will take place in Moscow, Russian Federation.

Georgia, Tbilisi. On 16th of July, Summer School "Gandagana" has been officially launched. 32 youngsters from 18 European states are taking part in this program. Among the project participants will have a 2 weeks tour in Georgian regions. The project is organized by local NGO "Europe's Students Forum" with the financial support of LEPL "Children and Youth Development Fund".

On 11th of July in  LEPL Pupils and Youth National Palace of Georgia held charity evening. With the initiative of organization "Georgian Business Ladies for Charity" held charity event "There are No Disabilities" which was dedicated to the children with autism in the Saint Georg autisms center. 

We, as a Ministry of Sport and Youth Affairs of Georgia feel obliged to express our opinion about the statement, which was made yesterday by one part of the sportsmen - about violation of their rights, because of their political views. We think that all the athletes are first of all citizens of their country and have the right to have and to express their civil or political opinion.

On 5-11 of July Khridoli delegation treveld to Lithuania to take part in  5th World Games" "sport for everybody". Delegation will take part in traditional national sport.

The best three from the group will continue in the second group stage of the struggle. Team which will be on the last place will have to fight for the play out 12-16th places. There will be three host cities for the European championship in Slovenia in Ljubljana, Domzhale and Krasnaya Gora.

Georgian judo team will take part in London Olympic games in the following composition: Betkil Shukvani (60kg) Lasha Shavdatuashvili (66kg), Nugzar Tatalashvili (73 kg) Avtandil Chrikishvili (81kg) varlam LIparteriani (90kg) levan Zhorzholiani (100kg) and adam okruashvili (100kg).

On 6th of July famous climber and base jumper, twice world champion in parachute jump Valeri Rozov climbed mountain Ushba (4300 ) and jumped. This was the first time in the history of BASE jump using wing suit while jumping from Ushba.

From 6 till 8 of July in Batumi was held European 2012 championship in beach handball among girls and boys under 18. Championship was very interesting and tensed. After three days of competition was reviled the best teams of continent

Georgia, Tbilisi. On July 3rd, "Caucasian Week in Georgia" was officially opened at the "Children and Youth National Center".

Georgia. Tbilisi. On 3rd of July, award and closing ceremony of the "Economy Summer School" for youngsters was held at the Ministry of Sport and Youth Affairs of Georgia. The Summer School was organized by the local NGO "Forum of Georgian Economists" with financial support of the LEPL "Georgian Children and Youth Development Fund".

6-8 July, European Youth Championship in beach volleyball will be held in Batumi, Georgia. Norwegian, Swiss, Hungarian, Turkish, Croatian, Russian, Ukrainian and Armenian national teams will participate in the tournament.

Georgia, Tbilisi. Presentation of the contest "Students' Face 2012" took place at Ivane Javakhishvili State University.  The contest will run under the patronage of the Ministry of Sport and Youth Affairs of Georgia. In the framework of "Students' Face" a jury will interview female students from institutions of Georgia to participate in the contest.

Ukraine, Kiev. On 30 June, UEFA executive committee (EC) made a decision to held match of Super Cup 2015 in Tbilisi. This statement was made on the after the meeting press-conference. Zviad Sichinava, President of the Georgian Football Federation (GFF) and Revaz Arveladze, Secretary General of GFF attended the meeting.

Azerbaijan, Baku. On 26-30 June the first youth congress" Big silk road" for Silk Road countries was held. Delegations from 26 countries were participating in the congress.

Georgia, Samtskhe-Javakheti. On July 2nd Sport Festival "Samtskhe-Javakheti 2012" opened at Akhaltsikhe Lake. The festival is organized by the Ministry of Sport and Youth Affairs of Georgian in collaboration with the local municipality.

Georgia, Tbilisi. On 29th of June, Vladimer Vardzelashvili, Minister of Sport and Youth Affairs of Georgia host cadet judoists, who were returned from their successful trip to the European Championship. The tournament was held on 22-24 of June in Bari, Montenegro.

Georgian tennis players - Mrs. Anna Tatishvili and Mrs. Maka Chakhnashvili were added to the Geirgian Olympic delegation to participate in London, 2012 Olympic Games. International Tennis Federation gave the so-called "wild card" to Georgian sportpersons.

From June 29 through July 1 swimming complex "Olympic" will host water polo international tournament. The upcoming event - "Cup of Tbilisi" will be carried with the auspices of European water polo federation. Belarus, Poland and the first and second teams of Georgia will participate in the competition.

Georgia, Tbilisi. June 19, Fitness club for persons with disabilities was opened at the Children and Youth National Center of Georgia (CYNC). The Club was equipped with the support of the UNICEF in Georgia. The staff of the club will provide individual physical trainings and consultations for beneficiaries.

On June 15-17, Sumo European Championship was held in Hungary, Budapest. Cadets and professional sportsmen from 17 countries wrestled in 5 weight categories. Georgian delegation included 5 sportsmen they totally took 8 medals. In addition to private achievements, Georgian sportsmen took the 2nd place in team competition.

On June 13, at the Ministry of Sport and Youth Affairs of Georgia NGO "Georgian Youth Parliament" signed a Memorandum of Understanding with "Ukrainian Youth Parliament".

Program in terms of performance - 01.01.2012 - 31.12.2012

Program in terms of performance - 01.01.2012 - 31.12.2012

Two-times participant of the Olympic Games  - David Ilarian has got his license to the Summer Olympic Games in London, 2012  

Georgia, Tbilisi. On June 5th, at the Turtle Lake, Youth Festival "Student Days 2012" final concert and award ceremony was held. Students from different universities were presented with their theatrical show, modern and folk dancing, singing and comedy performances during the concert. The main award - grand prize won the "SEU" university.

Winners of the sport-educational online game that was hosted by Ministry of Sport and Youth Affairs of Georgia web-site were awarded by Vladimer Vardzelashvili on December 30.  Gogita Mzareula has claimed first place while Giorgi Gordiashvili and Davit Chitaia divided other two places. Winners were awarded by publishing house Diogene as well.

The annual ceremony was held in Redisson Hotel (Tbilisi) on December 29 where Ministry of Sport and Youth Affairs of Georgia named winners in 8 nominations. The ceremony was led by Georgian Public Broadcaster journalist Otari Giorgadze and winners were awarded by Minister Vladimer Vardzelashvili. Representatives of various sports federations as well as veteran and young athletes were attending the event. Minister has presented 2011 season summery as well.

Gallery Vernissage has held exhibition of best photos participating in photo contest held by Ministry of Sport and Youth Affairs of Georgia on December 27. Winners of the five nominations were named as well. About 500 photos took part in the contest which was sponsored by Gulf. Photographers had to upload their works to msy.gov.ge web-site. 62 photos were chosen for exhibition and 5 were named as winners.  

Being short of decent first-rowers, French rugby club Toulouse decided to call for Georgian veteran Hooker Akvsenti Giorgadze to play for the team. While South African Harry Botha is injured and William Servat is disqualified the French side saw that it would be best to fill the gap by experienced Georgian who despite his age is still strong both in tactics and dynamics. Giorgadze has gained 62 caps for Georgian national team and took part in three world cup tournaments.

FC Zestafoni (Georgia) will take part in a friendly tournament in Spanish resort Marbella from February 3 to 9. The tournament is planned to be major part of FC Zestafoni’s preparations prior to second round of Georgian championship. Seven teams besides Zestafoni will play in Spain. Dinamo (Ukraine), CSKA, Rubin and Krilya Sovetov from Russia, Rapid (Romania), Lech (Poland) and Guangzhou (China).

The defender of Georgian national team and captain of Vitesse from Arnhem (Netherlands) Guram Kashia was named for symbolic team of first round of Eredivisie (Netherland’s highest football league) by authoritative web-site www.goal.com “Vitesse’s central defender Guram Kashia was better than Marcello, Virgil Van Dijk and Jan Vertonghen. He has showed his skills brilliantly more than once and in addition to being rock solid in defense, was aiding in attack as well” – says Goal.com   Guram Kashia has scored 2 goals in 17 games.

Twenty years old Georgian basketball player Tornike Shengelia ahs broke his foot in one of the games for his Belgian club Charleroi and is forced to take a rest for at least three months. According to Tornike’s father, former player Kakha Shengelia, his son played three games with an injury and only after that he conducted medical test which have shown how serious the injury was.

Official representatives of Spanish football club Valencia Javier Cabello Rubio and Fernando Gomes Colomer are visiting Tbilisi after being invited by Ministry of Sport and Youth Affairs of Georgia. Guests together with Minister Lado Vardzelashvili and Georgian Football federation president Zviad Sichinava have visited construction site of new stadium in Mtskheta and attended Georgian under-14 team’s training at December 21.

 Georgian national team has finished 2011 at 73rd position on FIFA - Coca-cola ranking and is one step ahead of Albania against which it plays friendly game on February 29, 2012. Temuri Ketsbaia’s team is ranked 36th out of 53 European nations and is 7th out of 15 former USSR Republics being behind Russia (12), Armenia (46), Ukraine (55), Estonia (57), Belarus (64) and Latvia (68). The first spot is still occupied by Spain followed by Netherlands and German national teams.  

Igor Kokoshkov has prolonged his contract with Georgian Basketball Federation (GBF) for another 2 years, though contract is on 2+2 terms so in case of mutual agreement it may be prolonged even farther after expiring of first term. The announcement was made by President of GBF Besik Liparteliani in Press-conference room of Courtyard Marriott in Tbilisi today.

Young Georgian forward, Konstantine Mikautadze has successful debut in elite French rugby division – the Top-14. Two-meter high second-rower of Toulon was called for 22-men squad and went on the field against Agen in second half. 20 years old Georgian was able to score a try 5 minutes before end of the game while his team was playing man less (Another Georgian, Davit Kubriashvili was sin-binned because of faul in the ruck).

40 year old Vazha Tarkhnishvili was named as the best defender of 2011 season in Moldova by country’s football federation. Veteran captain of Sheriff Tiraspol gained such honor fifth time in his career which is unique achievement itself. Besides that Tarkhnishvili was named Moldova’s best player in 2002. Vazha Tarkhnishvili has moved from Locomotive Tbilisi to Sheriff in 1999 and since than has won champion’s title 10 times while winning Moldova cup 7 times.

The president of Georgian Rugby Union Gia Nizharadze has announced on press-conference held on December 13 that new coach of Georgian national team will be New Zealander Milton Haig - former Southland halfback. Mr. Haig will arrive in Tbilisi on January 20 and will be presented to public in Ministry os Sport and Youth Development. Georgians: Ilia Maisuradze and Ilia Zedginidze will serve as assistants as well as his compatriot Chris Gibbes.

Vako Kazaishvili has played part in his team’s successful performance against Waalwijk which Vitesse won 4:0 in Eredivisie match. 18 years old Georgian played second game second game for his Dutch club and made it 2:0 at 21st minute of the game.  Kazaishvili spent 82 minutes on the field and was replaced by another Georgian, Giorgi Chanturia. Vitesse gained 25 points in 15 games and hold 7th position in championship though it is only 2 points behind 4th place Ajax Amsterdam.

Georgian national team first row - Davit Kubriashvili have prolonged his contract with French club RC Toulonnais by 3 years. Georgian is member of Top 14 French side since 2008 and thanks to constant high quality performance was invited by Barbarians for their annual tour this year. Two more Lelos play for Toulon club, the members of Georgian national youth team Levan Chilichava and Konstantine Mikautadze, though they defend reserve team's honor playing in Espoirs league.    

London is the first city which claimed the right to host Olympic Games 3rd time after 1908 and 1948. Unprecedented measure of security is to be provided by organizers. United Kingdom as one of the major members of NATO is sure to be the target for terrorists from July 27 to August 12, 2012 - when games are scheduled to run. Country's Olympic Committee had already asked the government for additional 275 million pounds, which is double the sum that was planned earlier.  

French Top 14's novice Lyon OU didn't stand a chance against Montpellier Hérault RC in the game which took place on November 30 in Lyon. Hosts have lost with a score 10:20. Georgian trio of Mamuka Gorgodze, Giorgi Jghenti and Mikheil Nariashvili were all in the starting line-up of victorious club, though another Georgian took part in the game as well.      

Georgian under-17 team was successful in Romanian capital Bucharest, where it played its game against host team in Under-18 European Championship qualification tournament. Little lelos have defeated Romanian counterparts 27:6 gaining the bonus point. If they will be able to repeat their success against Belgium, Georgians will get the ticket to European Championship.  

The drawing of the traditional media tournament, The Bacho Cup was held in Ministry of Sport and Youth Affairs of Georgia on July 1. The tournament will be held on July 2 - the international sports journalism day on Kus Tba (The Turtle Lake) in Tbilisi. The Bacho Cup is organized by Ministry with aid of Tbilisi City Hall, Natakhtary Company and Federation of Georgian Sports Journalists and it is created to honor the memory of late journalist, Bacho Svanidze.      

Olympic Challenge - the project provided by Ministry of Sport and Youth Affairs of Georgia runs for 3rd year in a row and arranges sporting events for youth in different regions of Georgia. Kareli hosted the tournament named after Olympic champion Shota Khabareli who comes from the village of Dzlevisjvari in Kareli district. Similar tournaments named after Olympic champions were already held in Akhmeta (Zurab Zviadauri) and Gori (Shota Chochishvili). 

Professional Georgian boxer Avtandil Khurtsidze, known worldwide as Tornado has won yet another fight in Kiev on June 11 and left the IBO mid-weight champion's belt on his waist. The fight, organized by Elite Boxing Promotion was quick as Georgian boxer was able to finish it in the first round. Columbian Dionisio Miranda was able to stand-up after the first knock-down but few moments later Khurtsidze claimed his 15th knock-out victory on professional level.      

French magazine L'equipe has summarized the last season of Top-14 championship and named bests of the season in several nominations. One of the leaders of Georgian national team - Mamuka Gorgodze, who currently plays for runner-up of Top-14 Montpellier was named as the best foreign player of year and his coach Fabien Galthe claimed the title of best coach. The title of player of the year went to Toulousian William Servat and his team-mate Jean-Marc Doussain was named as best young player.      

Georgian boxing national team on its way to Turkey held press-conference at Ministry of Sport and Youth Affairs regarding the upcoming European Championship in Ankara which is to be started on June 14 in Turkish capital. Together with coaching staff and team members, press-conference was attended by President of Georgian Boxing Federation Petre Tsikarishvili and Deputy Minister Gia Galdava. New sporting equipment was presented and the athletes which will going to Turkey were named. They are:      

Givi Kartozia and Vakhtang Balavadze International Tournament - Golden Gran Prix has ended in Tbilisi where Georgian national team claimed 5 gold, 7 silver and 14 bronze medals. Freestyle champions of 3-day long competition became Giorgi Edisherashvili (55 kg), Shalva Muziashvili (66 kg) and Davit Modzmanashvili (120 kg). Lasha Gogitadze (55 kg) and Irakli Kajaya won golden medals of Greco-roman wrestling.    

Minister of Sport and Youth Affairs of Georgia - Lado vardzelashvili awarded the winners of Georgian Universiade 2011 at the acting hall of Tbilisi State University. The overall winner of the Universiade has become Georgian Technical University with 15 gold, 14 silver and 16 bronze medals. Students were participating in 20 sporting events. Competition was tight as runner-up Ilia University has claimed 15 gold, 11 silver and 14 bronze medals while third place winner Agrarian University got 11 gold, 15 silver and 24 bronze medals.      

European Championship in weightlifting which was held in Russian city Kazan turned to be successful for Georgian athletes. Gia Machavariani (105 kg) has lifted 183 kg with snatch and 217 kg with Clean and Jerk techniques and collecting 400 points claimed silver medal of the competition on April 16. Another Georgian weightlifter, heavy weight Irakli Turmanidze has won lesser bronze on April 17. Meeting was held at Ministry of Sport and Youth Affairs of Georgia two days after where Minister Vladimer vardzelashvili congratulated the athletes.      

European Championship in weightlifting which was held in Russian city Kazan turned to be successful for Georgian athletes. Gia Machavariani (105 kg) has lifted 183 kg with snatch and 217 kg with Clean and Jerk techniques and collecting 400 points claimed bronze medal of the competition on April 16. Another Georgian Athlete, Irakli Turmanidze, will participate in tournament on April 17. Results in 105 kg weight category are as follows:      

FIFA-Coca cola ranking of national teams has been updated on April 13 and Georgian national team made an impressive jump to 56th position. Georgians being just 72nd last month progressed thanks to the latest undefeated series and shocker win against Croatia (1:0) in Tbilisi. Croatians though slipped down by 2 positions and now hold 10th place, while other participant of Group F at Euro 2012 qualifying round, Israel has made even greater progress and went up by 25 positions.      

Memorandum was signed on April 18 in Ministry of Sport and Youth Affairs of Georgia and broadcasting company Rustavi 2 at Ministry. According to memorandum, sides will organize and broadcast new youth project which goes by name as "The Team" TV program will be led by popular Georgian sport commentator Dimitri Oboladze. Participants of the program will be various school teams from around Georgia that will compete in various sporting activities.      

4th IBSA World Championship and Games was held in Alania, Turkey from April 1 to 10 where visually impared Georgian athlete, Nika Tvauri won bronze in 50 meters crawl. Athletes from 20 countries were participating in event and together with medal; Tvauri has also claimed the right to participate at European Championship in Germany which is to be held in July.     

World famous Italian skier Alberto Tomba has attended final stages of Georgian cup and championship in ski-resort Gudauri on April 10. Mr. Tomba has his 3-day long business-trip in Georgia and already visited Mestia and its new ski track. Alberto Tomba received joint invitation from local company Silk Net and Ministry of Sport and Youth Affairs of Georgia. Three times Olympic champion awarded the Sukhia Cup winners together with mayor of Tbilisi Gigi Ugulava and Minister of Sport and Youth Affairs Vladimer Vardzelashvili.     

The President of Georgia Mikheil Saakashvili has hosted three times Olympic champion, Italian Alberto Tomba in President's palace. Meeting was held in unofficial atmosphere and was attended by president of Silk Road Group and Minister of Sport and Youth Affairs of Georgia. Mr. Tomba confirmed at the meeting that Georgia has huge potential of developing winter-tourism in country.      

Action of solidarity was held on April 6 in Marneuli, Georgia by Georgian-Azerbaijani Student Asociation regarding the upcoming April 9 anniversary. For more cities choosen for actions to take place are Bolnisi, Dmanisi, Gardabani and Rustavi. Local youth, gathered on the action in Marneuli, honored the victims of Soviet army with minute of silence. "We want to share information about our past with ethnic Azerbaijani youth and show our Georgian friends that we are inseparable part of this country" said Samira Ismailova, participant of the action.      

The meeting was held in Ministry of Sport and Youth Affairs of Georgia between Minister Vladimer Vardzelashvili and members of the Georgian national wrestling team, including athletes, coaches and wrestling federation officials. According to Mr. Vardzelashvili, successful athletes will be granted with financial aid for their performance at European Championship in Dortmund, Germany.     

Minister of Sport and Youth Affairs of Georgia, Vladimer Vardzelashvili, together with head of the Georgian Rugby Union, Rustavi Mayor and Kvemo Kartli region governor laid the fundament of new rugby stadium construction in Rustavi. The stadium will hold whole complex of high standard fields including natural and artificial fields as well as sand-field for training purposes. The cost of the construction is over 2 million GEL and Kartu Group is one of the sponsors of the process.    

European Championship of Greco-Roman and Freestyle Wrestling have ended in Dortmund, Germany. Most successful day for Georgian delegation was the last day as Revaz Lashkhi (60kg) claimed the gold, defeating Bulgarian Ivo Serafimov-Angelov in final in 2 sets, 1:0 and 2:0. European and world champion - Hasan Aliev from Azerbaijan was defeated by Georgian in semi-finals of the competition.      

The project Schoolball has its new official sponsor since Zviad Sichinava - The President of Georgian Football Federation and Temuri Chkonia - The President of Coca-Cola Bottlers Georgia have signed the agreement of sponsorship at Tbilisi National Stadium after the press-conference held. The event was attended by Vice-President of UEFA Senes Erzik and Minister of Sport and Youth Affairs of Georgia - Vladimer Vardzelashvili.      

President of Georgia - Mikheil Sakaashvili held the meeting with Minister of Sport and Youth Affairs Vladimer Vardzelashvili and President of Georgian Football Federation Zviad Sichinava. The main topic of meeting was general plan of developing football in country and necessary measures to be taken in that direction. Mikheil Saakashvili noted that together with developing sport infrastructure at all levels, there is crucial need of broadcasting games live, to increase popularity of the sport.      

78th anniversary of Robert Shavlakadze was held in Didube Olympic Arena by Georgian Athletics Federation. Event was attended by the Minister of Sport and Youth Affairs of Georgia Vladimer Vardzelashvili, President of Georgian National Olympic Committee - Gia Natsvlishvili, representative of Tbilisi City Hall - Merab Chikobava and veteran sportsmen. The high jump Olympic Champion Robert Shavlakadze was born on April 1, 1933/ He has won the golden medal at 1960 games in Rome, Italy. He participated in 1964 games in Tokyo, Japan as well.      

Georgian freestyle wrestlers, Davit Marsagishvili (84) and Vladimer Khinchegashvili (84) both claimed silver medals at European Championship. Both of the athletes had to face Russian opposition in the final. Jamal Otarsultanov was able to defeat Vladimer Khinchegashvili but unpleasant accident took place in the fight between Marsagishvili and Urishev. M    

Jordan is hosting world championship among cadet and junior fencers from March 28 to April 5. Georgia is presented by 9 fencers one of which has already claimed bronze medal. Mikheil Mardaleishvili (saber) has claimed first ever Georgian medal at this level since the country's independence declared in 1991.      

The novice of the Georgian national team, freestyle wrestler - Davit Khutsishvili (74 kg), has won the bronze medal in Dortmund, Germany at European Championship. Davit Khutsishvili has won 4 out of 5 fights, loosing the semi-final in tough battle against representative from Armenia, Murtaz Murtazaliev. It is not the first international medal for Khutsishvili though.     

Georgian Basketball federation (GBF) has announced its schedule for national team on its way to EuroBasket 2011. Starting from July 24 to August 30, Georgia will have few training camps in Austrian Schteinburn, Tbilisi and Klaipeda. The team will have. The team will play international friendly games with Austria, Israel, Latvia and Lithuania. Georgia will take part in two international tournaments with Estonia, Sweden, NCAA club, Netherlands and Israel.      

Substitute Tal Ben Haim enjoyed a debut to remember by scoring the winner as Luis Fernandez's side kept recent momentum going in Group F. Substitute Tal Ben Haim marked his debut for Israel with a winning goal against Georgia as Luis Fernandez's side kept their recent momentum going in UEFA EURO 2012 qualifying Group F. Drafted into the squad as a late replacement for Eran Zahavi, the 21-year-old Ben Haim found the target just seven minutes after taking the field as a 52nd-minute substitute.     

Delegation of Georgian female archers arrived back in Tbilisi after winning the European Championship in Cambrils, Spain. The meeting, hosted by Vladimer Vardzelashvili - the Minister of Sport and Youth Affairs of Georgia, was held in Ministry on March 28. The Minister congratulated the team and its South Korean coach Jong Song Ang with success.

Levan Kobiashvili scored at the death to give Temuri Ketsbaia's side a victory that moves them within a point of their guests in Group F. Levan Kobiashvili struck at the death to give Georgia all three points, with victory leaving Temuri Kestbaia's side just a point adrift of Croatia in UEFA EURO 2012 qualifying Group F. There were 90 minutes on the clock when Otar Martsvaladze slipped the ball back for Hertha BSC Berlin midfielder Kobiashvili to beat Verdan Runje from ten metres in a game which always looked destined to end in stalemate.    

The first Olympic license of Georgia for 2012 London Games was gained together with World Cup in Sydney by sport shooter Nino Salukvadze. Olympic champion was able to collect 485,4 points overall during the competition which gave her the first position on podium and license for her 7th consecutive Olympic Games.      

The Minister of Sport and Youth Affairs of Georgia, Vladimer Vardzelashvili has met Football Club Valencia Sports Director Fernando Gomez Colomer and its manager Javier Cabello Rubio. Spanish architect Alberto Domingo Cabo was attending the meeting as well. Spanish delegation had visited Football Club Dinamo's sport base and sicussed the possibilities of farther cooperation with club's executive director Zurab Pololikashvili    

New sports complex became functional in Kvemo Kartli region. The President of Georgia - Mikheil Saakashvili opened the center in Marneuli together with Azerbaijan and Georgian Sports Ministers and Kvemo Kartli Governor Davit Kirkitadze. The centers primary function is to host and serve basketball events but facilities for other sports and modern training rooms are available as well.    

Heavy rain in Sochi on March 19 could not become an obstacle for Georgian national team on their way to yet another victory over Russian national side. 2 tries, conversion and the penalty brought 15 pints for Lelos against 9 grabbed by Russian bears, all thanks to penalty kicks. The score was even, 3:3 after first half of the game but visitors gained advantage in second and in front of few hundred Sochi-living ethnic Georgians were able to achieve success at Slava Metreveli Stadium              

The captain of the Georgian national team Zaza Pachulia had played his season game in a match where Atlanta Hawks lost to Denver 87:102. Zaza was best among Hawks spending 32:35 minutes on the field and scoring 19 points with 10 rebounds, 2 assists and 1 block. Atlanta went ahead at the start of the second period by 12 points but Denver was overall better at the end of the night.        

The meeting between Minister of Sport and Youth Affairs of Georgia Vladimer Vardzelashvili, Kvemo Kartli Governor Davit Kirkitadze and youth from Rustavi was held in Rustavi on March 18 at movie theatre Rustaveli. After the presentation of youth programs and detailed plans of youth development in the city, Minister answered the questions of audience.      

The meeting between Minister of Sport and Youth Affairs of Georgia, Vladimer Vardzelashvili, Georgian Rugby Union Development Manager Nodar Andguladze and Ronnie Todd - The Bradford College Projects Manager, took place in Ministry on March 18. The meeting was attended by Deputy Ministers as well as General Secretaries of Boxing and Basketball federations of Georgia: Merab Ratishvili and Vladimer Akhalkatsi.                

Bakuriani has held the meeting with Minister of Sport and Youth Affairs of Georgia (MSY), Vladimer Vardzelashvili on March 17. Together with representatives of regional municipalities they discussed new initiatives and possibilities of sport development among youth. 4-day long trainings are taking place in Bakuriani from March 16 to 19. About 50 representatives of different municipalities and regional youth centers are taking part in the process.      

Avtandil Khurtsidze (23-2-2, 13 KOs), quite possibly the best ever Georgian prizefighter in the history of boxing, accomplished his old dream to become a world champion at the Palace of Sports in Tbilisi, Georgia's capital and its biggest city. WBA #1 ranked middleweight Khurtsidze grabbed a vacant IBO 160lb title with a tough and rough twelve-round decision over rugged and durable Pole Mariusz Cendrowski (21-3-2, 8 KOs). 

Georgian Rugby National Team beat Romanian National Rugby Team 18:11 at "Mikheil Meskhi" stadium in the capital of Georgia, Tbilisi. As a result Georgians got back ‘Atimoz Iverieli Cup". Georgian team could not manage to score 4 tries and did not win "Nations Cup" in advance but approached it very much. 

Paris has held European Winter Championship in indoor facilities in on March 4-6 where Georgian athletes were participating as well. Endrik Silberstein ran 400 meters in 48.07 seconds repeating his own set Georgian record and took 18th place among 26 participants. His result was the best Georgian result at the tournament. The winner for the event became French Leslie John with 45.54 seconds.    

An opponent was named for world-ranked Georgian middleweight Avtandil Khurtsidze (22-2-2, 13 KOs), who headlines a local fight card in Tbilisi, Georgia, on March 13. WBA #1 ranked 160-pounder will take on experienced Polish battler Mariusz Cendrowski (21-2-2, 8 KOs) for the vacant IBO middleweight title, vacated by Peter Mandfredo Jr. The show is being arranged by Kiev-based Elite Boxing Promotions. 

Georgian National Rugby Team beat Portuguese National Rugby Team in the third round match of Nations Cup 13:12. The match was held in Lisbon. Georgian National Rugby Team beats Portuguese National Rugby Team 10:6 after the first half of the third round match of Nations Cup. 

Long before the start of Olympic Games in London, UK next year, Georgian National Olympic Committee (GNOC) have booked the place for Georgian House in Kingdom's capital. Negotiations with the owner of fashionable building in prestigious Chelsea had been successful. President of GNOC, Gia Natsvlishvili will fly to London today to sign agreement on March 1.      

The contract was signed between Natakhtari Company and Georgian Basketball Federation (GBF) at Ministry of Sport and Youth Affairs according to which one of the beer brands of Natakhtari - Karva becomes sponsor of the GBF and National Team for the 3 years term. Press-conference was held at the Ministry where Deputy Minister Davit Namgalauri, GBF President Besik Liparteliani, National Team member Anatoly Boisa and Marketing Director of Natakhtari - Tornike Nikolaishvili answered the journalists' question.    

Georgian rugby national team beat Spain 60:0 in to the second match of Nations Cup 2011 at Tbilisi "lokomotivi" stadium. Georgian "Lelos" scored 9 tries, 6 conversations and 1 penalty kick. Georgians also took bonus point for score 4 and more try. On February 26 Georgian National Rugby Team holds the next match against Portuguese National Rugby Team in the city of Portugal, Lisbon. 

Minister of sports and Youth Affairs, Lado Vardzelashvili with Deputy Ministers - Davit Namgalauri and Gia Galdava have hosted meeting with the President of European Chess Union (ECU) Silvio Danailov. Mr. Danailov is visiting Tbilisi to observe the preparation process before Women Individual European Championship that is planned to be held in Georgian capital in May. The final confirmation as of where the tournament will be held will be announced on February 18 by ECU.     

The project by the name of Green Box was presented in Tbilisi Marriott on February 11 by Ministry of Sports and Youth Affairs of Georgia. The wide variety of governmental and international organizations has attended the presentation. As a result of the project, so called green boxes are to be installed in various organizations, and people will have the chance to participate in collecting wastepaper. In place of some wastepaper thrown into the box, person will get free ecologically healthy paper bag.            

Olimpija from Ljubljana was able to win the Slovenian Cup 17th time in its history and members of the Georgian National Team, Giorgi Shermanidi and Vladimer Boisa were part of that victory this time.  Olimpija had to defeat Helios in easy battle which ended 92:55 in the final. Giorgi Shermadini had 12 points, 5 rebounds, 2 assists, 2 turnovers and 2 blocks during his 21:53 minutes on the field. Boisa went all-4 with points, rebounds and assists.    

First Deputy Minister of Sports and Youth Affairs Giorgi Avaliani and Tbilisi State University rector, Alexander Kvitashvili has opened the international ELSA summit on February 10 in Tbilisi Holiday Inn. ELSA or European Law Students' Association is European international independent non-commercial organization which unites about 30 000 law students from 40 countries.    

International friendly was held in Limassol, Cyprus between national teams of Armenia and Georgia which resulted in Temuri Ketsbaia's side winning 2:1. The first half was more or less equal with slight advantage of Georgian players having more time with ball and keeping it better. First goal of game was scored after combination by experienced members of Georgians. Khizanishvili sent Kobiashvili to the left and Kobiashvili was precise giving it to iashvili just in front of the Armenian keeper Kasparov who wasn't able to stop Iashvili from scoring at 22th minute.    

Ministry of Sports and Youth Affairs together with Georgian National Olympic Committee starts to study new circumstances regarding the tragic death of Georgian luger Nodar Kumaritashvili at Vancouver 2010 Olympic Games in Canada. One of the Canadian TVs has published the news about unknown electronic messages between International Luge Federation and Vancouver 2010 organizers where federation warns Canadian side about unsafety of Whistler track 11 months prior to the games.    

With just over 100 days to go until the IRB Junior World Rugby Trophy gets underway in Georgia, the venues, pools, schedule and match officials have been announced for the key international Age Grade tournament. At a well attended media conference in Tibilisi today tournament organisers revealed that the first ever IRB tournament to be hosted in Georgia will see Tbilisi's impressive Shevardeni Stadium and the Avchala Stadium host double header match days, kicking off on Tuesday, May 24.    

The new season of European Nations Cup take starts on February 5 with Georgia playing against Ukraine, Romania visiting Portugal and Spain hosting Russia. Having the easiest opponent in the first tour, Georgia have claimed expected victory by great margin despite having some problems and mistakes in game which are to be corrected if Lelos want to impress the fans against tougher rivals of the group. The new system of point distribution is introduced in this season's ENC and Georgians were first to benefit from it.    

Ministry of Sports and Youth Affairs has hosted the 80 years anniversary event dedicated to Vakhtang Salukvadze, the honored coach and international sports master in shooting. Minister Lado Vardzelashvili has granted Mr. Salukvadze with prize money and certificate for his contribution of developing the shooting sports in Georgia. Vakhtang Salukvadze being the many times champion of USSR is also the father and private coach of Nino Salukvadze, the Olympic Champion in shooting, who was also named the best ever shooter of Georgia at the meeting.    

Deputy Ministers of Sports and Youth Affairs Davit Namgalauri and Gia Galdava, together with President of Georgian Water Sports Federation Alexander Bitadze held press-conference at sport complex Olympic regarding the upcoming water polo season in Georgia. Different age-category teams will participate in country's championship this year. The championships will be held by international standards for the first time in this sport's history in Georgia. National championship will start on February 20.

Minister of Sports and Youth Affairs Lado vardzelashvili has visited the Tbilisi State University (TSU) at February 3 to discuss the plans regarding student days 2011 which will be held in May, 2011. Meeting was attended by TSU rector Sandro Kvitashvili and students of various colleges. Sporting and entertaining as well as other cultural and art-related events will be held during 5-day long festival which will end with a concert. Festival is organized by MSY and is open for those who wish to cooperate.     

Minister of Sports and Youth Affairs of Georgia Lado Vardzelashvili together with Deputy Minister Davit Namgalauri and President of Georgian Athletics Federation Aleksi Akhvlediani has visited the sport complex in Didube which is planned to be fully rehabilitated in 18 month term. Reconstructive works will be provided not only on arena itself but the nearby hotel as well. The complex will be able to host high standard tournaments after the works.      

Tbilisi Sports Palace has hosted the final game of the Georgian Basketball Cup where teams of Georgian Army - "Army" and Ministry of Interior Affairs  - "Mia" have met. Army team had an easy game winning 71:51 and claiming its first ever title in existence. Giorgi Sharabidze has scored most with 17 points and 16 rebounds and the title of best player went to his teammate Buba Berishvili.      

Lithuania will host the next European Championship in Basketball from August 31 to September 18, 2011. The draw was held yesterday in National Drama Theatre of Vilnius. 24 teams will play in 4 groups and top 3 teams from each group will continue to participate in next round of the tournament. Georgia went to group D where its opponents will be Slovenia, Russia, Belgium, Bulgaria and Ukraine.     

More than 200 judokas from 26 countries were participating in Tbilisi World Cup which have ended on January 30. Georgians were able to win 2 gold, 1 silver and 1 bronze medals. Ambako Avaliani was first to climb to the highest position on first day of the tournament winning in the 73 kg weight category. 2 more medals were won in 81 kg where Georgian final took place. Avtandil Chrikishvili was able to defeat Davit Karbelashvili and claimed the gold.    

Ministry of Sports and Youth Affairs of Georgia has hosted the meeting with President of International Judo Federation, Marius Vizer in Tbilisi on January 29.Vizer met The Minister Lado Vardzelashvili, deputy minister Davit Namgalauri, President of Georgian Olympic Committee Gia Natsvlishvili and Executive President of Georgian Judo Federation Giorgi Aleksidze on the second day of his visit, after meeting the heads of Olympic Committee, The head of Parliament and Tbilisi Mayor the day before    

Legend of New Zealand and World Rugby - Sean Fitzpatrick is on his official visit in Tbilisi, invited by Georgian Rugby Union to become the first member of the International Advisor Board of Georgian Rugby Union. Mr. Fitzpatrick have met Minister of Sports and Youth Affairs of Georgia, Lado Vardzelashvili in the ministry and said that he is glad to be representative of Georgian Rugby in the world. Mr. Fitzpatrick has also congratulated Georgian side for achieving the right to host under-20 world trophy in Tbilisi.        

The European Championship in figure skating has ended in Berne, Switzerland. Georgian sportsmen, Elene Gedevanishvili has claimed 8th place after receiving 53,68 points for short program on January 28 and adding 94,28 points for free program on January 29. The first place and gold medal went to Italian Carolina Kostner. The hosts' favorite Sarah Meier was second and Russian Alena Leonova climbed on the 3rd place of the pedestal.     

Gldani Olympic Reserves Center has rich traditions in Georgian sports history. The purpose of the center is to find talented athletes among youth and help them develop their skills, as well as to prepare them for junior and cadet teams. Functioning from 1958 3 Olympic, 3 World, 3 European as well as many other well known sportsmen were raised in the center that needs to be rehabilitated to serve its purpose once again.    

President of French Athletics federation, Bernard Ansalem and his Georgian colleague Alexi Akhvlediani signed co-operation agreement after the meeting with Minister of Sports and Youth Affairs Lado Vardzelashvili. Purpose of the agreement is to support the development of athletics in Georgia. French side will provide various projects and offer help in many directions to support Georgian federation and athletes.    

Zviad Sichinava remains on the post of the President of Georgian Football Federation (GFF) for another 4-year term. Decision was made on 19th congress of GFF held in Holyday Inn (Tbilisi) on January 22. 30 out of 33 invited delegates appeared on the meeting and all of them voted for the only candidate. Member of the UEFA executive committee Frantiszhek Lavrinek was also attending the congress as an observer.    

The 68th chess championship of Georgia held in Anaklia is over and Maia Lomineishvili was crawened as a new champion. She gained 8,5 points as well as ex-champion Bela Khotenashvili but overcame her by additional indicators. Lomineishvili had tough fight in last, 13th tour where she met Nino Khurtsidze playing with whites but Lomineishvili was able to get a draw and the title.    

Extraordinary elections were held in Ministry of Sports and Youth Affairs of Georgia where Aleksi Akhvlediani was elected by majority of votes as the new president of Georgian Athletics Federation.Elections were held after Tamaz Mdinaradze has resigned from the post. Mr. Akhvlediani was the only candidate and he will take the place for 2 years term.     

First Deputy Minister of Sports and Youth Affairs of Georgia, Giorgi Avaliani, has opened regional youth center in Gori. The centers are supposed to provide help for youth in realizing various projects, to develop social skills as well as have educational and entertaining purposes. One of the prior directions of work for the center is to help victims of 2008 Russian aggression.      

The heads of the Martial Arts Federation held meeting with press on Janury 17 at the Ministry of Sports and Youth Affairs of Georgia. The last year achievments were discussed by President of Martial Arts Federation Kakha Basilia, Minister of Sports and Youth Affairs Lado Vardzelashvili, Deputy Minister Davit Namgalauri, The Honorary President of Martial Arts Federation Giorgi Baramidze, The head of the parliament committee of sport Giorgi Asanidze and Davit Machavariani.    

Judo World Masters took place in Baku on January 15-16. Six judokas from Georgia took part in the tournament but left Azerbaijan capital without medals. Davit Asunbani (60 kg), Levan Tsiklauri (81 kg), Levan Zhorzholiani (100 kg) and Zviad Khanjaliashvili (+100 kg) lost their fights in the first rounds while Amiran Papinashvili (60 kg) and Varlam Liparteliani (90 kg) have won once and lost in quarterfinals claiming the 5th place.    

The ministry of sports and youth affairs of Georgia held an event in movie-theatre Rustaveli on January 12, regarding the youth project "Patrioti" and summarized the last year's programs. The chairman of youth center Tati Eliadze presented documentary and new video about Patrioti youth camps. The music for video was written by popular Georgian composer and singer Zumba. Director is Giorgi Kharebava and video itself is made by PFM and Creative Group.    

Georgian bycicle racer Davit Askurava won 250 m. distance event in Moscow, Russia, before going to Beijing, China on January 16, to participate in World Cup stage. On January 13 Askurava is going to participate in 500 m. distance event. The Open Championship of Russia is international tournament, therefore winning the events in Russian capital is considered prestigious. Askurava claimed 9th place in group race event as well.    

Georgia has climbed up one step on new FIFA/Coca-Cola ranking where it had 73th place last month. Georgian national team has played 8 games, including friendlies during 2010 and didn't suffer a single loss. First game in 2011 is appointed to February 9 against Armenians, while on March 26 Temuri Ketsbaia's team will play its first official match in New Year. The opponents will be leaders of qualification group F - Croatians.    

Elections of Georgian Athletics federation president will be held on January 20, 2010 in Ministry of Sports and Youth Affairs. Last date for signing the application was January 10 therefore Aleksi  Akhvlediani will be the only candidate for the chair. The Georgian businessman currently lives in Ukraine but he already arrived in Georgia and met few coaches and athletes. In case of success he will take place of Tamaz Mdinaradze, the previous president who held the spot from 1991 until December 2010 when he re-signed.     

Georgian National Team is preparing for Baku Masters - the first international tournament of 2011 for Georgian team. The minister of sports and youth affairs Lado Vardzelashvili and deputy minister Davit Namgalauri have attended the training season of the team. "The season will be extremely important for us, as Georgian athletes have to fight for gaining the Olympic licenses for London next year. The training sessions became harder and the competition to gain the spot in country's main team will be tough" - said Vardzelashvili.    

The minister of sports and youth affairs of Georgia, Lado Vardzelashvili, along with deputy minister Davit Namgalauri has opened the 68th championship of Georgia among women chess players. "The fact that tournament takes place in Anaklia is important for farther development of resort, as one of the main tourist centers of country" - Vardzelashvili said. The tournaments highest league games will take place from Januray 9 to January 23. Prize equals to 13500 and country's strongest players will compete for the title.    

About 700 children from refugee and homeless children shelters attended the theatrical performance "Salamura" by Archil Sulakauri. The even was organized and sponsored by Ministry of Sports and Youth Affairs of Georgia. As first deputy minister - Davit Namgalauri said, this event will not be single case and similar events will take place often during whole year.    

Batumi state university has hosted the meeting between first deputy minister of Sports and Youth Affairs, Giorgi Avaliani and representatives of several Georgian college self-governments.The work done and programs provided at 2010 were summarized on meeting and the future plans were discussed. According to Avaliani, the ministry and colleges plan to intensify the relationship even more next year.    

37 old years waterskiing star Genadi Guralia, who lives in Italy, have won titles of European and World champions among sportsmen older than 35.Vice-president of Ministry of Sports and Youth Affairs of Georgia, Davit Namgalauri has hosted the meeting with Guralia on December 28.Georgian athlete had successful season winning 6 medals on European and World championships in 2010    

Employ the student - such is the new project presented by Media Group - Creative and supported by Ministry of Sports and Youth Affairs of Georgia.The project was presented in ministry on December 27. Last year students of several Georgian colleges will be able to participate in special program during which, they have a chance to work in private sector. Few students have already found their places in companies such as Ekofood and G-Mart. The goal of the project is to increase employment rate among students.      

Youth marathon was held in Rustavi on December 24 by Civil Development Agency with supports of Ministry of sports and Youth Affairs.The refugees from breakaway regions of Georgia took part in the event and the winners were awarded with financial prizes and certificates.Civil Development Agency is working on the problem of integrating the citizens from problematic regions into Georgian society.       

Tbilisi Event Hall has hosted the annual awards organized by Ministry of Sports and Youth Affairs on December 23, 2010. The winner of main nomination - The Sportsmen of the year became member of Georgian national rugby team, Davit Zirakashvili. The award for best coach went to Temuri Ketsbaia - The coach of Georgian national football team and Georgian national basketball team became the team of the year.    

Minister of Sports and Youth Affairs of Georgia, Lado Vardzelashvili have signed Memorandum of Mutual Understanding together with his Armenian colleague Artur Petrosyan on December 16 in Tbilisi. Armenian officials have visited sport and youth facilities of Georgia and shared the experience of two countries while discussing the possibilities and prospects of future co-operation.    

The Youth World Trophy, which is qualifying round for World Cup 2012 will be held in Tbilisi. The decision was made by International Rugby Board (IRB) after visiting the capital of Georgia and observing the development of rugby infrastructure as well as visiting Shevardeni Rugby Academy with its base and Sinatle Stadium construction site.    

29 years old An Iong Seung is member of many archery clubs and is certified coach. He was met on December 11 by Minister of Sports and Youth Affairs of Georgia - Lado Vardzelashvili, President of Georgian Archery Federation Mamuka Katsarava and other officials. The federation together with Ministry of sports and Youth Affairs is planning to open archery school in Georgia.    

The new youth center was open in Ambrolauri on December 9 by Minister of Sports and Youth Affairs Lado Vardzelashvili and Governor of Racha-Lechkhumi-Kvemo-Svaneti Davit Gagoshidze. World Bank have deposited 60 000 USD for the center, which will try to help local youth in developing their communicational, sport and other skills and support them to realize their potential.     

Minister of Sports and Youth Affairs Lado vardzelashvili, together with Governor of Kvemo Kartli Davit Kirkitadze, have visited the construction site in Rustavi, where newly rebuilt autodrome will be able to host about 20 000 spectators. Stromos LTD. Is financing the reconstruction works. Track length is planned to be approximately 4 km with 12 m. width.     

The Peace and Sport International Forum was hosted by Monaco from at December 1-3, where members of international organizations, sport federations, governments and other high officials from around the world together with athletes and businessmen met under the patronage of HSH Prince Albert II of Monaco and discussed the problems of developing peace through the sport in the world.    

Georgia gained two important victories in Tbilisi over the course of November tests on November 20 and 27 against North American rugby nations - Canada and USA. The debut game of new coach Richie Dickson against Canada proved to be tough but the team was able to pass it and gained the convincing victory 22:15. After that, Georgian "Lelos" host USA rugby national team and beat them in very dramatic match 19:17.    

The IRB chairman Bernard Lapasset have visited Tbilisi week after and examined rugby infrastructure of country. Together with other high officials - Georgian Prime Minister - Nikoloz Gilauri and Minister of sport and youth affairs of Georgia, he seemed to be extremely pleased by seeing Shevardeni Rugby Academy and promised the farther support to Georgian Rugby Union from the International side.      

Georgian national team has ended its football year without single defeat in Slovenia - 2:1 on November 17. Hosts controlled the game and only efforts of goalkeeper Giorgi Loria kept them from scoring more than once in first half of the game. On 40th minute of the game Loria was able to keep the clean sheet after the penalty strike by Novakovic but he wasn't able to fix his defenders obvious mistake few minutes after when Ilicic passed to Cesar to let him make it 1:0 with a header.    

The president of Georgia, Mikheil Saakashvili has visited Shevardeni on Noveber 10, 2010. According to President, the government will continue supporting one of the most popular sports of Georgia and will farther increase financial aid. 12 rugby bases are planned to be built in Tbilisi as well as 19 stadiums around the Georgia.      

The last official game of Georgian national team in 2010 was played on October 12 in Riga, Latvia. Georgia was in charge of the game almost entire 90 minutes and had few chances to score. After the goal that was dismissed because of the offside, Georgia had another opportunity to take the lead and the chance was successfully used. Davit Siradze scored on 74th minute of the game after fine play of Ucha Lobzhanidze but guests were not able to keep their frame safe until the final whistle.    

September 5, 2010 may indeed be counted as a historical day for Georgian basketball as executive committee congress has increased the number of participants of European Championship next year from 16 to 24; meaning that Georgian team which claimed second place in Group C, Division A of qualification round doesn't have to play addition play-off round with 5 other teams and is automatically gaining the ticket to Lithuania.    

Georgian national team has beat Bulgaria 94:83 in Tbilisi on August 29 and have claimed second place in group C, Division A.Victor Sanikidze was best with 27 points and 11 rebounds while the captain Zaza Pachulia didn't do it bad too, gaining 14 points and 12 rebounds. second-place winners in Groups A and B had better overall indicators, so the Georgian team will have to participate in additional qualifying round together with 5 other teams next year to win 1 remaining spot of Euro 2011.   

Georgian national basketball team has hosted Poland in Tbilisi Sports Palace on August 2 as part of the qualification round to next year's European Championship. The first game for Georgian side in group C, Division A has ended by host side victory, with an impressive score difference, 84:65. Georgia has yet to compete against Poland, Bulgaria, Belgium and Portugal for the right to participate in Euro 2011 in Lithuania.     

The UEFA headquarters in Nyon, Switzerland, have held the draw for first and second qualification stages of 2010-2011 season of Champions League and Europa League. Georgia will be presented by 4 teams, one of which will battle for the spot of the group stage of Champions League.  

Marsa, Malta have hosted the 3rd league European Championship in Athletics on June 19-20 where Georgia presented 19 sportsmen. Three of them were able to reach the highest spot of the podium. Endrik Silberstein (400 m), Davit Ilariani (110 m hurdles) and Mariam Kevkhishvili (Shot Put) have won the gold medals of the tournmanet.  

Romania is hosting the IRB Nations Cup where Georgia achieved huge success winning against Scotland "A" 22:21 in Bucharest. Lelos were losing 3:13 after the first half but fough back in the second. Shalva Sutiashvili has scored the try converted by Irakli Kiasashvili. 5 penalties for  Georgia were also scored by Kiasashvili.  

The Georgian National Team member Giorgi Shermadini is the first Georgian legionnaire to claim champion's title this year. One more Georgian basketball player who is close to repeat Giorgi's success is Vladimir Boisa, from KK Zadar which plays in Adriatic League, but while Boisa is the central figure in his Croatian club, Shermadini gets not as much play time for his Greece club Panathinaikos.  

European  Arm wrestling Championship was held in Moscow, Russia, from May 31 to June 6. Georgian National Team was able to win 8 medals overall and took 4th team place among 22 nations. Genadi Kvinkvia (110 kg, left hand) and Vilen Gabrava (60 kg, left hand) became the champions of Europe. Silver medal was won by Vasil Dautashvili (100 kg, right hand).      

Sport-complex Olympic has hosted the Georgian Water Polo Championship final between Ligamus (Ilia State University) and Tbilisi on June 7. Tbilisi has won the final by narrow score 11:9. Third place match was played between Neptun and Iveria and ended with 18:15 victory for Neptun. Kote Gelashvili and Zurab Chumburidze from Ligamus became best scorer and the best goalkeeper of the tournament, while Beka Kenkadze claimed the prize for best defender.  

Madrid, Spain held the World Judo Cup on June 5-6 where Georgian athletes claimed 3 medals, one of which is the gold won by Irakli Tsirekidze (100 kg). Tsirekidze went past French, British, Slovenian and Brazilian judokas on his way to the final, where he met Ukrainian Jevgenijs Borodavko, who was defeated with Ippon. Bronze medals were won by Amiran Papinashvili (60 kg) and Nugzar Tatalashvili (73 kg).      

The identities of two Americans added to the Georgian National Basketball team are revealed. Georgian Basketball Federation has chose Quinton Hosley and Taurean Green from many candidates discussed.  

Varna, Bulgaria has hosted the European Championship in Sumo on May 26-27 where Georgian athletes took 5 medals. Adam Okruashvili (heavy weight) climbed on the 3rd place of the podium, but became the champion among youth sportsmen. Avtandil Tsertsvadze won bronze. The same result was achieved among youth by Zaza Belashvili. Georgia ended with a team second place on youth tournament.  

Georgian Rugby Union Natioanl team prop Davit Zirakashvili became the French top-14 champion with his Clermon Clermont Auvergne. Clermont, who lost three finals in a row in Top-14 competition, was able to claim the victory 19:6 over Perpignan on May 30 at Stade De France.  

Georgian Under 21 team have played Euro 2011 qualifying Group B match against Switzerland on May 30, 2010 at Boris Paichadze National Stadium in Tbilisi. The game was drawn, 0:0 despite the fact that hosts have little bit of advantage over the guests. Georgians were able to send the game to the net at 18th minute of the game but referee saw the offside and waved his flag. Georgian team remains the minimal chances to qualify.      

The reconstructed Tamaz Kiladze Arena was opened in Kutaisi by President of Georgia Mikheil Saakashvili and the veteran players of Georgian arch-rivals Dinamo Tbilisi and Torpedo Kutaisi. "You all remember the poor conditions of this arena. from now on, I wish Kutaisi players to play not only for the right to participate in the highest division, but to win it too" - Said Saakashvili.   

"WIT-Georgia" Tbilisi is the Georgian Cup winner. The final of the Davit Kipiani Cup was held at the Boris Paichadze stadium in Tbilisi on May 26. Two clubs from Georgian capital clashed in the decider.WIT-Georgia scored the game's only goal at 41st minute of the game. Giorgi Datunaishvili found the net after Jaba Lipartia's good wing play and crossing pass. These is a first cup title for "WIT-Georgia" team.  

Georgian youth weightlifters have participated in Weigthlifting European Championship and won 1 gold and 2 silver medals. The tournament was hosted by Spain in Valencia on May 17-23. Lasha Talakhadze (heavy weight) became the champion while Shota Manvelidze (56 kg), Viliamin Alexidze (94 kg) claimed silver. Georgia took 8th place in team ranking.  

NATO Information Center has organized the mini-rugby tournament between amateur teams of journalists which was hosted by Wissol (Georgian commercial group) on its sport-complex on May 22-23. The tournament was won by sport-journalists' team - Sport Media. The Sport Media team played final match wearing black armbands commemorating late Bacho Svanidze - young Georgian sport-journalist which deceased few days ago after long period of illness.   

Georgian football team played international friendly in Lienz, Austria on May 25 against World Cup 2010 participant Cameroon and drew the game 0:0.It was the second game for Temuri Ketsbaia on post of the head coach of national side.   

After almost 20 year-long break, water-polo is back to Georgia and Tbilisi hosted the international tournament during May 19-21. Georgian National Team have defeated unexpectedly the United Kingdom 10:7 and won the tournament.Tato Nikoleishvili scored 3 times, Giorgi Khvedeliani and Mikheil Bagaturia both made double and other goals were scored by Iovan Popovich, Vladimer Marcovich and Beka Kenkadze.   

Sports department hosted the press-conference regarding the European Sambo Championship which was held in Mink, Belarus on May 14-16. The Georgian team managed to win 2 gold, 3 silver and 1 bronze medals and take third team place at the tournament.  

The last match of Georgian Basketball Superliga finals was held in Tbilisi Sports Palace on May 19. Energy-Invest of Rustavi was leading the series 2:1 but the decider became hard challenge against Tbilisi State University team.  

After almost 20 years long pause, Tbilisi is hosting Tbilisi International Tournament of Water Polo again. Tournament was opened on May 19 in newly constructed swimming center Olympici.  

The presentation of new swimming complex took place on May 13 in Isani district (Tbilisi). The complex was visited and opened by Georgian President Mikheil Saakashvili on Cholokashvili str. Saakashvili have signed Tbilisi-2015 supporting banner and received symbolic number 5 swimming hat from Georgian National Team member water polloist Nodar Rapava.

Olimpi Rustavi has officially become champions of Georgia on May 5, after the 33th tour of the Umaglesi Liga match against Dinamo Tbilisi. The game ended with a draw 1:1 and a point gained by Rustavi team was enough to make the gap between leader and the followers uncloseable

22 players are named by Temuri Ketsbaia for upcoming friendly match on May 25 against Cameroon. The headcoach of Georgian National Team have made some changes to the squad and it looks different than the one that played agains Estonia.The team will have week-long gathering from May 18 in Kaprun, the little town near Salzburg in Austria.   

The Minister of Sports, Culture and Monument Protection of Georgia, Nikoloz Rurua has opened the renovated building of Georgian Football Federation and received quick tour from GFF President Zviad Sichinava, Vice-President Alexander Chivadze and General Secretary Revaz Arveladze. The event was also attended by Head of the Sports Department Davit Namgalauri.  

Under-18 Georgian National Rugby Team was awarded by Nikoloz Rurua's (The Minister of Sport, Monument Protection and Culture of Georgia) commemorative certificates for their achievement at European Youth Championship where team won two out of three matches and took third place of the tournament.  

The Azerbaijan capital, Baku was hosting European Youth Judo Championship at May 1-2 where Georgian judokas claimed five gold medals. Liparteliani (90 kg) won silver medal in individual competition too, but as he said, he doesn't consider the second place as a success and the team gold is what everyone should congratulate him with.  

Varlam Liparteliani, 21 is one of the key figures of Georgian Judo Team that won the European Team Championship in Austria this year. His point was decisive against French team in the final clash. Liparteliani (90 kg) won silver medal in individual competition too, but as he said, he doesn't consider the second place as a success and the team gold is what everyone should congratulate him with. 

The President of Georgia, Mikheil Saakashvili congratulated Georgian National Team that have managed to win the team competition in Vienna, Austria and became European Champion. Saakashvili mentioned the great amount of work that was done since 2004 to improve overall situation in Georgian judo.  

19 years old, Swedish youngster Marcus Nyman's dreams came true with the European gold medal in his hands. He won title in the final against Varlam Liparteliani (GEO) who won a silver medal at the last European Championships in Tbilisi (GEO). Nyman could finish the fight earlier, but he didn't take advantage of osae-komi situation. Later, during the golden score, Nyman surprised the everybody with a great Sasae-tsurikomi ashi, resulting in yuko and took the title to Sweden. 

Georgian judo national team wins the last Event of these European Championships in Vienna. The Georgian team beats France 3:2 in the final of the Team Event. The French star Teddy Riner could not - despite a win in the heavyweight fight - avert the close loss.Third places went to Russia and Romania. Varlam Liparteliani confirmed his quality and good form in his match clashing with bronze Romain Buffet. Liparteliani threw an amazing uchi-mata for an ippon and finally won his gold, but this time with the Georgian men's team.

The press conference was held with a return of the teams in the Sports Department. The event was hosted by Georgian Sambo Federation President Levan Tediashvili, Vice-President and National Team Coach Oleg Iadze, Youth and Junior Teams Coaches Badri Janiashvili and Emil Rash as well as The Deputy Head of Sports Department Irakli Samkurashvili and Head of the Sports Administrion Vano Janukashvili.  

Minister of Sport, Culture and Monument Protection of Georgian, Nikoloz Rurua, together with Head of the Sports Department Davit Namgalauri and President of Georgian Basketball Federation Besik Liparteliani held the meeting in Ministry with veteran Georgian Basketballists. The improvement of national championship, infrustructure and different age category teams' problems were the primary subject of the meeting.    

Georgia were once the nearly men of European basketball. Stuck in EuroBasket Division B, Georgia has always had a talented squad and almost won promotion in 2005 and 2007 but suffered upset defeats that cost them a spot in Division A. The most disappointing setback of all came on August 29 in 2007, when they travelled to Reykjavik to take on Iceland.Heavily favored going into the game, Georgia lost 76-75 and ended up missing out on the Promotion Round.    

By the President's initiative, the physical culture classes will be replaced with the sports lessons at public schools from the next academic year. 48 pilot schools have been selected throughout the whole country in order to launch the piloting process and the development among the schoolchildren at the basic and secondary levels. The sport base already existed at these selected schools, so the beginning of the new project is possible there.

The report regarding the tragic death of Georgian luger, Nodar Kumaritashvili at the Vancouver 2010 Olympic Games is now ready for downloading at: http://www.fil-luge.org/. The International Luge Federation, FIL, has published its final report to the International Olympic Committee, IOC, on the fatal accident of Georgia's Nodar Kumaritashvili on its homepage. "What happened to Nodar has been an unforeseeable fatal accident".      

Department of Sports and Youth Affairs of Georgia hosted the congress of Georgian National Boxing Federation where president election took place. Petre Tsiskarishvili was elected by majority of voices for the second 4-year term as a head of the federation. Tsiskarishvili and General Secretary Vladimer Akhalkatsi, who was appointed to the second term as well, reported about past 4 years to the delegates. The congress reduced the board count of the federation from 29 people to 15 before the election took place.      

Salonica, Greece hosted the European Sambo Championship among youth and junior teams on April 15-19. Georgians were successful with both teams as youth took first team place while juniors second. It is the first win of Georgian youth team after 17 year long delay. Georgians collected 15 medals overall at the tournament. 4 gold, 2 silver and 1 bronze came from youth while junior team collected 2 gold, 4 silver and 2 bronze medals.   

Georgian Youth Baseball Team has won the game against US Amateurs in Tbilisi on April 18 with a score 11:4. Teams played 7 innings and in the beginning of the game neither side had decisive advantage, though from the later on, Georgians coached by Nugzar Kapanadze took the game in their hands and won. About 100 spectators attended the game. US team includes amateurs from US Embassy in Georgia and army instructors.  

The bronze medal won by Soso Jabidze (96 kg) is the only medal that Georgian Greco-Roman wrestlers were able to gain on European Championship in Baku this year. The National Team novice, Jabidze, lost his golden chance in quarterfinal against Russian Aslanbek Khushtov, who became champion later.

The Greco-Roman days at European Wrestling Championship are going to be held on April 17 and 18 in Baku and the team headed by the coach Begi Darchia flew to Azerbaijanian capital after two-weak long gathering in Batumi.

The coach of the Georgian National Judo Team, Amiran Totikashvili, named 8 judokas who will participate at European Championship in Vienna, Austria on April 22-25. 7 Judokas will participate in individual tournament, while Lasha Gujejiani will be added for team competition.  

The World Championship in fencing among youth and cadet fencers has ended in Baku and General Secretary of Fencing International Federation, Maxim Paramonov together with President of European Confederation Frantishek Yanda have visited Tbilisi to meet Georgian Fencing federation President Archil Gogelia and Sports Department heads.

The second day of European Championship in Baku, brought two silver medals to Georgian wrestlers. One of the leaders of Georgian team, Giorgi Gogshelidze (96 kg), lost the final match to Azerbaijanian Khetag Gazyumov. The score was 2:0 after the first set. Georgian wasn't able to change it in the second and the host favorite claimed the gold.

The first day of European Championships in Baku, Azerbaijan, brought bronze medal for Georgian delegation. Freestyle wrestlers in 55, 66, 84 and 120 kg weight category went to the carpet today but only Georgian who could reach the podium is Otar Tushishivli (66 kg).  

Georgian boxers participated in two international tournaments in Yerevan, Armenia and Ankara, Turkey from April 5 to April 12 and were able to win the medals on both. The tournament was held in Armenia on 5-11 April and Georgians took 5 medals (1 gold and 4 bronze).   

Georgian youth judoka team has won the World Cup team competition in Greece. Georgians were able to collect 4 golden, 1 silver and 4 bronze medals on the tournament which took place in Moudania on April 10-11.  

Georgian Youth Water Polo team had successful qualifying campaign and claimed the right to participate on European Championship in Stuttgart, Germany from April 8 to 15.  

Baku, Azerbaijan will host the European Championship in wrestling on April 13-18. Freestyle competition will take place on April 13 (55, 66, 84 and 120 kg) and 14 (60, 74 and 96), so the freestylers have already departed from Tbilisi. Greco-roman wrestlers will arrive in Baku later. They will defend the flag on April 17-18. Between these two, women's competition will take place on April 15 and 16.  

Georgian Rugby Union (GRU) held press-conference in Department of Sport and Youth Affairs regarding the succesful participation of Georgian Under-18 Team on European Championship in Italy and camp, that Georgian National Team "A" had in South Africa.  

The Head Coach of Georgian National Freestyle Wrestling Team Zaza Turmanidze named the wrestlers who will participate in European Championship in Baku, Azerbaijan on April 13-14. The team consists of Georgian championship golden medalists. They had last sparrings on April 6 at Dusheti Olympic Base.

Professional Football League (PFL) of Georgia held 14th conference on April 7. The officials discussed new redaction of PFL constitution, new concept of PFL, PFL's action plan for the next season and few other subjects The President of Georgian Football Federation (GFF) Zviad Sichinava and General Secretary Revaz Arveladze also attended the event as well as representatives of 25 clubs from Umaglesi Liga (highest division of Georgian championship) and First League. PFL held press-conference after the conference 

Georgian Under-17 Team is back from Washington D.C. where it took part in Tiffany Trophy Cup tournament from March 27 to April 2. The tournament is traditional and is held since 2006. Last year it was Real from Madrid who became champions.  

The Georgian national Under-18 Rugby Team, which gained 3rd place at the European Championship, came back from Italy on April 5 and was met by The Head of Department of Sports and Youth Affairs David Namgalauri. Georgians have won their games against Romania 25:7 and Belgium 18:15 and lost the semi-final against Ireland Club XV 11:19 at the tournament. France became champion winning the final game against Ireland 27:3. 

Georgian National Rugby Team "A" played its second game of South African camp on April 3. The opposition was Stellenbosch Rugby Academy Under-21 team this time. Georgians claimed their second victory of the trip, 20:10

After defeating Romania 25:7 and loosing to Ireland Club XV 11:19, Georgian under-18 team had to play with Belgium for the third place of the European Under-18 Rugby Championship in Italy.

Georgian National Team have lost against Denmark at the qualifying round of Women World Cup in Mikheil Meskhi stadium in Tbilisi.guest had full control over the match and led 4:0 after the first half of the game. They were able to score 3 more times in the second and won the game 7:0. Lela Chichinadze had the chance to score 1 goal for the Georgia when she went head to head with the Danish goalkeeper but couldn't made it to the net.  

Zaza Pachulia had his best match on March 31 against L.A. Lakers. Atlanta Hawks won 109:92 and Pachulia madehis double double, playing 24 minutes, which is record duration for Zaza this season. Georgian made 10 points, 2 assists, 10 rebounds and 2 steals

The Minister of Sport, Culture and Monument Protection Nikoloz Rurua and Head of the Department of Sport and Youth Affairs Davit Namgalauri, together with deputy Irakli Samkurashvili, attended some sport events during their visit in Batumi. The Minister of Education, Sport and Culture of Batumi Mate Takidze provided the warm welcome for guests.  

Georgia lost its semi-final match against Ireland Club XV 11:19 at European Under-18 Rugby Championship in Italy. Georgian U-18 side was winning the game after the half-time 11:6, but couldn't hold it untill the end.Georgia will play 3rd place game against Belgium at April 3, while Ireland and France will clash for the gold.   

The Head of Sports and Youth Affairs Department of Georgia, Davit Namgalauri reported about 2010 Sport perspectives to Parliament Committee of Sport and Youth Affairs.Namgalauri  focused at priorities and development ways in different spheres of Georgian sport and said that there still are many things necessary to do for the progress.  

Georgian Under17 Team wasn't able to go through the Elite Round of European Championship qualifiers. After winning against Group 1 hosts - Czech Republic (1:0, and loosing against Netherlands (1:2), Georgians had theoretical chances to make it out of the group, but after the draw against Ukraine (2:2), they took just the third place.  

Riga, Latvia hosted the international tournament in youth freestyle wrestling on March 24-26. Nine Georgian athletes took part in the tournament and 8 of them have won the medals.  

The Movie House hosted premiere of the documentary about development of Rugby in Georgia named "The Oval Ball" by director Gogi Toradze. The film is 30 minutes long and tells the story of Georgian rugby beginning its first steps from 1960 to modern days. First achievements of Georgian clubs participating in USSR championship are followed by independent Georgian rugby success and its National Team history.     

The development program of sport infrastructure is taking its start in Poti too. During their visit Minister of Sport, Monument Protection and Culture Nikoloz Rurua and the head of Sports Department David Namgalauri have visited few facilities that are planned to be build or reconstructed.    

Italian Treviso hosts the Euopean U-18 Championship in Rugby, where Georgian youth squad defeated Romanians 25:7 in the first round of the competition and advanced to the semi-finals. Lelos were able to score 4 tries in the game 

The Minister of Culture, Monument Protection and Sport - Nikoloz Ruria continues his trip around Georgia, during which he meets representatives of different spheres of his responsibility.     

The World Figure Skating Championship was held in Turin, Italy from March 22 to 28. 20 years old Georgian Elene Gedevanishvili, for whom this tournament was fifth World Championship, was 12th after the short program and only 21st out of 24 participants in free skating competition. Gedevanishvili's final position for the tournament is 18th with 137.33 points overall. 

Georgia secured first place on European Nations Cup by victory over Russia in Trabzon, Turkey. It is already for 17 years that Lelos are undefeated by Russian rivals. Tim Lane's team is now placed in group B at the 2011 World Cup competition in New Zealand where it will play against England, Argentina, Scotland and repechage winner team. One of the leaders of Georgian side, Irakli Natriashvili have talked about past games against Romania and Russia as well as about future World Cup perspectives of the team.    

Georgian U-17 Team won its first game of the European Championship Qualifying Elite Round. The host country for Group 1 matches is Czech Republic and it was the host team that lost against Georgians with a score 0:1

Minister of Sport, Culture and Monument Protection Nikoloz Rurua and Head of the Department of Sport and Youth Affairs Davit Namgalauri have visited Kutaisi on March 26. Together with Kuraisi mayor Gia Tevdoradze and Imereti governor Lasha Makatsaria observed the building sites of some newest sport facilities.    

The fixtures shedule for qualifying group stage of UEFA Euro 2012 was determined by in Tel Aviv, Israel. Agreement wasn't reached in groups B, F, G and H earlier this year, so the draw was held in Tel Aviv at the XXXIV ordinary UEFA congress.

Nineteen Georgian judokas took part in youth competition of European Cup held in Antalya, Turkey on March 20-21. Sicteen judokas were the finalists of Georgian Championship plus three athletes went to Turkey on their on expenses

Georgian archers have won the bronze medals at the team competition of Winter European Championship held in Porec, Croatia on March 16-21.  

Georgia climbed two steps up in IRB World Rankings after defeating the Russian Bears in Trabzon, Turkey to secure the first place at European Nations Cup competition. Georgia got 1,58 points after the win and went ahead of Russia and USA, returning to the 16th place - the spot it lost for loosing against Romania in Bucharest.

Baadur Jobava won silver medal in Rejika, Croatia at the European Championship where he accumulated 8,5 points after 11 tour, exactly matching Russian Artem Timofeevs score count. Two sides decided the fate of the medals in tie-break, where Jobava won with whites and Timofeev accepted the draw in next game, playing with whites himself

Georgian National Team smashed Russian side on the neutral field in Trabzon, Turkey at Akcabaat Fatih Stadium. March 20 game was determining European Nations Cup final ranking this year and it was decisive game to determine which spot would take Georgia and Russia at 2011 world cup where they already had secured tickets before this match.   

Georgian Rugby Union, Rugby Fans League, Natakhtari Company and Sports Department held the press-conference on March 18, regarding the fans transportation and activity issues to March 20 game between Georgia and Russia in Trabzon, Turkey.  

Tbilisi Chess Palace held an event in honor of Zurab Azmaiparashvili's 50th anniversary on March 16. The live legend of world chess, 8-times world champion, Garry Kasparov have visited Tbilisi to attend an event and meet his colleague and old friend.

Eilat, Israel was the host city from March 10 for the 4-day long event. 19 Sports were presented at the fifth International Tournament of Non-Olympic sports. Sportsmen from more than 20 countries were presented. Georgia sent its karate team to Israel which had a good harvest of medals.   

Zaza Pachulia's pass to Joe Smith in Atlanta Hawks vs. Detroit Pistons was nominated as the best pass of the tour. Pachulia's Hawks have won the game 112:99. Georgian centre played about 17 minutes.In one of the attacks, he gave pass from behind his back to Smith, causing the excitement of some 18 000 people rooting for Atlanta. Beside that pass, Zaza made points and 6 rebounds in the game. 

International boxing tournament was held in Usti nad Labem, Czech on March 10-13. Georgian team, consisting of 6 males and 2 females was able to win 4 medals. The best was Beka Lobzhanidze (91+ kg), who was stopped in final by Russian boxer. Other three medals were bronze. Kakha Jvania (69 kg), Rezo Karelishvili (81 kg) and Davit Gogishvili (91) climbed to the third place of the podium.  

The Georgian National Team member, Giorgi Merebashvili scored his first goal for his new club, Vojvodina in 18th  tour of Serbian Superliga in the match against Cukaricki.Merebashvili scored the goal at 84th minute with a penalty kick. He also got a yellow card during the game. Georgian forward was replaced after the goal. His club is now at the 3rdplace following the Crvena Zvezda and Partizan  

Baadur Jobava is still leading at the European Chess Championship in Rijeka, Croatia after 8 out of 11 tours of the tournament.Jobava defeated the Hungarian Zoltan Almasi, seeded as a number one in the last tour and is ahead of Ukrainian Zahar Efimenko, Bosnian Ivan Sokolov and Russian Ian Nepomniachtchi by half point.  

Georgian shot-putter Mariam Kevkhishvili won the US Unievrsity Winter Championship title in Fayettville, Arkansas at the tournament held on March 12-13. Her result is 18,59 meters, the new Georgian record for winter championships.Kevkishvili is just a second athlete in US Winter University Championships history, who managed to win the title three times in a row."I am very happy with this victory" - Said Kevkhishvili. "I have set new Georgian record for third time this year and have won six title on US University tournaments too"      

Georgian National Team was beaten 22:10 in Bucharest, Romania, by the home side on March 13, in the European Nations Cup game.Georgia pocketed its tickets to the World Cup earlier in the tournament and they are leading the ENC group by 24 points. At the other hand, Romania, acquired the chance to climb to the third position in group and get the right to battle in repechage for one more World Cup spot.

March 13, 2010 the President of Georgia Mikheil Saakashvili, together with Head of Sports Department Davit Namgalauri, Olympic Committee President Gia Natsvlishvili and Head of Parlament Committee of Sport and Youth Affairs Giorgi Asanidze, opened the new Olympic Preparation Centre in Dusheti. There were presidents of several sport federations of country as well at the event.

National Team member, 20 years old Georgian centre, Giorgi Shermadini set his own new Euroleague record. Shermadini played 15 minutes and scored 11 points for his Greek club Panathinaikos against Marousi. in Euroleague Top-16 game. Earlier record of Shermadini was 10 points, scored against Russian Khimki in the beginning of season. 

The Georgian Rugby Union held press-conference Regarding the upcoming matches against Romania in Bucharest and Russia in Trabzon (Turkey) on March 13 and 20 at the European Nations Cup. Event was hosted in the Department Sports and Youth Affairs of Georgia by Georgian Rugby Union (GRU) president Gia Nizharadze, the head of department Davit Namgalauri, head of the Patrol Police Department Giorgi Gegechkori and president of Georgian Rugby Fans League Nika Ramishvili.

Rijeka, Croatia is hosting the Euro Chess Championship from March 5. Baadur Jobava from Georgia is leading the table among men after 4th tour of the tournament.He has 4 points as well as Ukrainian Zahar Efimenko , but Georgian is first because of additional index. Jobava and Efimenko will play in the 5th tour.   

March 3 was a lucky day for Georgian football. First it was Under-21 team that won against Estonia on Mikheil Meskhi and then it was National side that was able to defeat the team from same country in friendly game on Boris Baichadze National Stadium. New head-coach of Georgians, Temuri Ketsbaia was pleased by the score but disappointed by the quality of play.    

Georgian under-21 National Team took important 3 points after 90 minutes of game against Estonia at Mikheil Meskhi Stadium in Tbilisi.One of the key players for successful side was WIT Georgia's Irakli Klimiashvili.

Georgian National Judo Team's preparation for European Championship is close its final stage. The head-coach Amiran Totikashvili gave chance to almost every candidate of the main team during the tournaments held in January and February this year.    

Meraker, Norway will host European Championship in shooting at March 6-14. Individual as well as team competitions will be held.Among strongest participants from around the Europe, two participants from Georgia will travel to Norway too - Levan Kadagidze, 25 and Olympic champion and medalist Nino Salukvadze. Salukvadze will take her chances at March 12, and Kadagidze will shoot at 13.

Hungarian Golden Grand Prix tournament was held in Szombathey at March 6-7, where Georgian Greco-roman wrestlers took part with incomplete team and came back home with two medals.None of these were golden though. Silver was won by Shmagi Guliashvili (74 kg) who won against 4 out of his 5 opponents. Akaki Jokhadze (84 kg) lost his highest medal chance at early stage but fought well against other 3 wrestlers in repechage and reached the bronze. 

Another game was played in good spirit by Georgian National Team member Mamuchar Markoishvili in Italian Serie A.  Markoishvili's NGC Medical Cantu won tightly, 73:72 against Bancatercas Teramo. Georgian was in the starting line up and played 31 minutes. Manuchar scored 23 points and made 4 rebounds, 4 assists and 2 blockshots accumulating impact coefficient of 28 which was the best result among both teams 

Didube Sports Arena hosted the Georgian Winter Athletics Championship at March 5-6 in Tbilisi. Akhaltsikheans reached the first place in team competition, but more of that they took down the records of 1988 and 2003 in 400 and 4x200 meters competitions.Endrik Silberstein was best at 400 meters and reached the finish line in 48.7 seconds, which is 1.03 seconds less than the record set in 1988 by Mikheil Gaprindashvili. 

First match of the new season for Georgian football national team starts with 2:1 victory in international friendly match against Estonia at "National Stadium" in Tbilisi. Two goals were scored for Georgia by levan kobiashvili (penalty) and david siradze against one goal for Estonians. In this match there was a debut for Temur Ketsbaia as a Georgian national team's head coach. Georgia has won first time since 2008 year.

Goals in each half from Revaz Barabadze and Jano Ananidze ensured Georgia picked up their second win in UEFA European Under-21 Championship qualifying Group 2, 2-0 against Estonia in Tbilisi. Victory takes Georgia to within a point of third-placed Estonia whose hopes of securing one of the four best runners-up spots were dealt a severe blow 

Georgian judoka Varlam Liaprteliani won the first gold of 2010 season. 90kg Liparteliani took part in Prague tournament held at February 27-28 and was able to defeat six judokas before climbing on the top of the podium.13 more judokas from Georgia were participating in Prague World Cup, but none of them were able to reach the medals. 

Georgia have become the latest nation to emerge from the global qualification process to confirm their place at Rugby World Cup 2011 following a 17-9 victory over Spain at the National Stadium in Tbilisi on Saturday. A seventh victory in eight matches in the European Nations Cup 2010 extends Georgia's lead in the standings and ensures they cannot now finish outside the top two places which have direct qualification for RWC 2011.

21 yaers old Georgian Elene Gedevanishvili finished 14th in women's figure skating competition at the Vancouver 2010 Olympics. Gedevanishvili was 9th after the short programme, but during her free programme, she had several mistakes and finally took 14th place. Olympic gold medal won by South Korea's Kim Yu-na.

Firts Georgian duet at figure skating - Allison Reed and Otar Japaridze took 22-th place at the 2010 Vancouver Winter Olympic games. total score for japaridze and read wos 132.32 points.

The Georgian National Team heavyweight judoka, Zviad Khanjaliashvili, won the bronze medal of Duesseldorf Grand Prix, the tournament held in Germany at February 20-21. He was the one among 13 participants from Georgia able to reach the podium.Khanjaliashvili lost his semi-final fight against Islam El Shehabi, The judoka from Egypt who have defeated another Georgian, Lasha Gujejiani in quarterfinal of the tournament.    

According to tickets distribution of European Nations Cup match between Georgian and Russian national teams, the Georgian Rugby Union press centre announces the following:Growing interest of fans around the match between Georgian Lelos and Russian Bears, which will be held at March 20 in Trabzon, Turkey have caused the deficit of available tickets.    

The Georgian centre of Atlanta Hawks, Zaza Pachulia is back after two game break caused by an injury. He played 18,29 minutes against Los Angeles clippers and made 8 points, 7 rebounds, 1 assist, 1 turnover and 2 blockshots. Hawks won 110:92 and shares the 3rd-4th, positions with Boston in Eastern Division, both having 33 wins and 18 losses.

Georgian basketball national team member - Manuchar Markoishvili (Cantu, Italy) scored 25 against Montegranaro in the match of highest Italian division which Cantu lost 71:77. Markoishvili have set a new own record. It was his first time he scored so many points in Italy and no other Georgian forward had achieved same in Seria A yet. After the loss Cantu went down to 7th place of the division.    

After the tragic death of Georgian luger Nodar Kumaritashvili at the Olympic Games in Vancouver, many letters of regret and condolences were received by Georgian delegation from around the world. The delegation was visited by President of Georgia Mikheil Saakashvili at February 13. At the briefing held by Saakashvili later that day, he told reporters that luge track will be constructed in Bakuriani, the hometown of 21 year old late luger.    

XXI Olympic games hosted by Vancouver, Canada, started with a tragedy for Georgian delegation. 21 years old luger, Nodar Kumaritashvili died during the training race at Whistler Sliding Centre few hours before the opening ceremony of the games. Kumaritashvili, ranked 44th, flew out of luge in one of the turns racing with 145 km/h and was bumped into the metal construction outside the track. Kumaritashvili was delivered to hospital immediately but the medical personnel were not able to save his life.    

Georgian rugby team steps closer to the World Cup tournament after 16:10 victory in Lisbon against host team of Portugal in the European Nations Cup game. The game started after the minute of silence dedicated to the memory of Nodar Kumaritashvili, Georgian luger who died after the accident at the training race in Vancouver, during the Olympic Games.     

The head of UEFA National Associations Developments Department Pascal Torres and the Hat trick Program executive Joseph Clement with other officials from UEFA and Georgian Football Federation President Zviad Sichinava with General Secretary Revaz Arveladze, have visited technical centre Basa, Saguramo Base and stadiums of FC Wit Georgia in Mtskheta as well as Poladi Stadium in Rustavi.    

Georgian Athlete Mariam Kevkhishvili, the member of Florida University Team, set the new Georgian record for winter championships in shot put by achieving the result of 18,56 meters at February 6. Virginia University Championship is the tenth tournament in a row that Kevkhishvili was able to win. The old record, 18,47 meters was also set by Mariam.      

Warsaw, Poland hosted the draw for the 2012 European Championship qualifying groups. Organisers decided that because of the political tension, Georgian and Russian, as well as Armenian and Azerbaijanian teams would not participate in same group no matter what. Draw was held at the Palace of Culture and Science of Warsaw. The qualifiers will start September 2010 and end October 2011. The group F participants with Georgia are also Croatia, Greece, Israel, Latvia and Malta.    

Georgian National Judo Team has won three medals in France on the tournament held at February 6-7 in Paris. Davit Asunbani (60 kg) became the fifth Georgian judoka in history, who claimed the champion title at Paris Grand Slam. Silver was won by Levan Tsiklauri (81 kg) and bronze went to Olympic Champion, Irakli Tsirekidze (100 kg).

Georgian rugby team has started the season by playing European Nations Cup match against Germany in Tbilisi, February 6, at the Boris Paichadze National Stadium. Lelos achieved an impressive win by scoring 11 tries against Germans' one realised penalty. Two time scorers of the match became Giorgi Nemsadze, Merab Kvirikashvili, Irakli, Machkhaneli and Bidzina Samkharadze. Tedo Zibzibadze and Besik Udesiani scored once each and Georgia also gained the penalty try. The final score 77:3, expected win for hosts.      

Vienna, Austria hosted the 2012 European Championship qualifiers draw for European Handball teams. Georgia will play in Group "B" against Italy, Latvia and Finland. Finland is the well known team for Georgians as they lost 28:30 recently against northerners in Challenge Trophy final game. Only the winner of the group will continue to fight for the spot of Euro 2012.    

Four gold, four silver and seven bronze medals were claimed by Georgian judokas at Tbilisi World Cup tournament in Tbilisi Sports Palace. Davit Asumbani (60 kg), Shalva Kardava (66 kg), Levan Tsiklauri (81 kg) and Mindia Bodaveli (90 kg) became champions, while Betkil Shukvani, Khvicha Khutsishvili, Revaz Chikoidze and Adam Okruashvili gained silver medals.    

The Minister of Education and Science Dimitri Shashkin, Minister of Culture, Monument Protection and Sport Nikoloz Rurua and Head of the Sport and Youth Department of Georgia Davit Namgalauri met several Georgian sport federation representatives and sportsmen. Together they discussed the program of replacing the unpopular physical culture lessons in Georgian schools with various sports' disciplines.    

Georgian figure skater, Elene Gedevanishvili was fourth with 60,82 points after short program at European Championship in Tallin, Estonia, but managed to improve her skating the second day and won the bronze medal with 164,54 points. She gained 50,20 points for technical elements and 53,32 for program components. Carolina Kostner with 173,46 points won the gold medal.    

Lithuania will host European basketball teams in 2011 during the European Championship, but before that, Munchen, Germany hosted the draw in which the qualifier groups were determined. Georgia was placed in Pool 5 before the draw and will play against Belgium, Portugal, Poland and Bulgaria in Group "C".      

On 14th of December in conference hall of Department of Sports and Youth Affairs, Department of Sports and Youth affairs, Georgian anti-doping Agency and Rugby Union conducted medical seminar for the Heads of Georgian Rugby clubs, athletes and medical personnel. The head of GADA Pavle Kasradze and General Secretary Teimuraz Ukleba have introduced the auditorium to the main principles of fighting against doping, that have become significant theme in modern sport lately.    

1st European Universities Games "Cordoba 2012" is taking place in Cordoba Spain. Universities teams from various European States are taking participation in the competition, which includes 10 sport categories. Georgian handball team (Georgian Technical University) won the tournament and became the Champion.