The start of the LEN European Short Course Swimming Championships began off with a solemn candle parade led by a beautiful all-girls choir and was followed by flag-holders from 45 countries. The crowd was energized by the indoor pools that were just filled in the newly constructed Royal Arena in Copenhagen, Denmark.
Welcoming Speech By President of LEN, Paolo Barelli
Dear President Egebo, Dear Mr. Mayor, Dear Athletes, Representatives of our National Federations, Dear Friends!
We are back! Four years after a wonderful championships in Herning, we are here again in Denmark. And looking around in this magnificent Arena, we are already sure: we made the right decision when LEN awarded this event to the Danish Swimming Federation once more.
We are really proud of the achievements of our athletes, coaches, officials and our National Federations. You can take any statistics into consideration, number of medals, number of finalists, special awards, participation – you will find that in aquatics Europe is the best and the strongest continent among all.
Your success makes this event one of the real highlights of the aquatic season. Or, let me say, the coronation of the season – where else, than here in the Royal Arena.
Our athletes’ outstanding efforts also mean an obligation for LEN. We are committed to create a perfect environment in all our events and to support the athletes our National Federation in all possible ways.
In Copenhagen it seems everything has come together. Great venue, great stars, surrounded by great fans on the stands. Also, we enjoy a tremendous support of our dedicated LEN Partners and also the local Partners of the event, especially the City of Copenhagen and Sport Event Denmark.
But a big thank you should also go to the Danish Swimming Federation, led by President Kjeld Egebo and Director Pia Holmen.
Also, we have to be grateful for the five hundred volunteers – without you this event cannot be successful. Thanks for your dedication and support!
And now, Dear Friends, let the show begin!
Thank you for your attention.
