ARM servicemen, traditionally for the twentieth time, celebrated the 18th of February – the Day of International Military Sports. The sports events were happening at the same time in all garrisons of ARM under the motto “A Day for Running and Good Health for all”. They competed in different sport disciplines including cross country running for males and females, football, basketball, volleyball, table tennis and chess.
On this day, at the General Staff of ARM, the Chief of GS of ARM Lieutenant General Metodija Velichkovski presented a Diploma and a Cup with IMSD logo to private Milosh Ranchikj from the air support brigade. He was pronounced as the Sportsman of 2016 due to his contribution to sports in ARM.
A lot of ARM personnel have achieved significant results in sports competitions in-country and abroad. Among the successful ones are: major Igor Jakimovski, who has taken part in 325 official competitions in different athletic disciplines, including three times at the Military Olympic Games, a 42,2km marathon in Switzerland, where he ran with full military equipment and a 6,5kg rucksack for 3 hours and 42 minutes and finished first among foreign army representatives; corporal Ljubomir Spasikj was fourth on the European rank order list of the wild water canoeing of the European Canoe Association in 2016; sergeant Cvetanovski Igor, has won 10km race many times and was pronounced a Sportsman of 2014; lance corporal Dimeska Marija won the 9th and 10th cross country race of ARM and has taken part in many international and national biathlons
In order to take part in these competitions the competitors must be dedicated, courageous, motivated and must put a lot of effort. All these characteristics are key features of the military profession.
ARM has been a fulltime member of the International Military Sports Council since 2005 and has the right to take part in all international sports events and competitions organized by this military sports organization. Last year ARM was the host of the 31st World Military Wrestling Championship in which 400 sportsmen from 32 countries, from 4 continents took part and confirmed the dedication to military sports.
By taking part in military sports events, army values are promoted, the spirit of tolerance and mutual respect is developed, defense capabilities of the country is promoted and all that contributes to making peace in the world.
