The President of the Hellenic Republic Mrs. Katerina Sakellaropoulou had a reception to honour the country's Olympic delegation at the Presidential Mansion on Monday.
Mrs. Katerina Sakellaropoulou welcomed the delegation of the Hellenic Olympic Committee (EOE) headed by its President Spyros Capralos, as well as a delegation of the Greek Olympic Team that will take part in the Tokyo Olympic Games.
During the reception in the garden of the Presidential Mansion, Mrs. Sakellaropoulou made the following statement:
"With joy and emotion I welcome you to the Presidential Mansion ahead of your departure for the Tokyo Olympics. It is a great honor for you to represent our country in the leading world event that seeks to exalt the athletic spirit, as expressed by our ancient ancestors and as transformed in modern times. At the same time it is a great honor for all of us to be represented by athletes whose "whose strength disregards the great toil ", as Pindar, the great ancient lyricist, characteristically wrote in the First of his Olympic hymns.
"By linking sport with culture and education, Olympism seeks to create a way of life based on the joy of effort, the educational value of setting a good example and respect for universal moral principles," were the words of the inspirer of the revival of Pierre de Coubertin Olympic Games. You, our athletes, are the embodiment of these values, excellence, mutual respect, friendship and cooperation. The effort you put in, the gentle rivalry you develop and your high mindset give me the assurance that you will excel in these struggles as well.
I know that the pandemic has proven particularly difficult for sports and for each of you, with serious consequences, both technically, competitively and psychologically. With your recent performance, however, you have shown that you are not discouraged by adversity.
I am sure that your mental stamina, systematic and diligent, despite the health crisis, your preparation, your vigor and your dedication to your goal will lead you to distinction. I wish from the bottom of my heart, every success ".
The welcoming event was attended by the Deputy Minister of Culture and Sports Lefteris Avgenakis and the General Secretary of Sports George Mavrotas, and was preceded by a meeting with the Board of Directors of the Panhellenic Sports Press Association, chaired by its President Giannis Theodorakopoulos.
READ: HISTORIC FIRST: Greece to open Tokyo Olympics with two flag bearers - Greek City Times
