Yuri Vardanyan Weightlifting School Opens in Gyumri

The Yuri Vardanyan Weightlifting School, named after the Olympic champion and world record-holder, has officially opened in Gyumri. The symbolic ribbon was cut by Yuri Vardanyan's mother and the school's top student, Hakob Mkrtchyan.

Funded by community resources, the school was built at a cost of approximately 21 million drams. Although the Yuri Vardanyan Weightlifting School has been operational in the city, it has not previously had its own building, with training sessions conducted in rented spaces.

"I feel joy and emotion. Although my son is not here, I am happy that you remember him this way," noted the renowned athlete's mother, Asya Vardanyan, assuring that the school named after her son will produce worthy weightlifters. The mayor of Gyumri informed guests that a bust of the famous weightlifter will also be installed at the school.