Olympic medallists Andrus Veerpalu and Jaak Mae gained their first contest experience just at winter games of rural sports. Their coach, Mati Alaver, also won a victory at winter games of rural sports: particularly in 50 km cross-country skiing in 1977. At the opening ceremony of the last winter games, Andrus Veerpalu hoisted the flag and won a gold medal at the same games. His mother took part in the last winter games of rural communities.
During their discussion, President Arnold Rüütel emphasized the importance of rural sports for strengthening the health of people. He also deemed it necessary that opportunities to go in for sports existed in every rural community of Estonia.
Ants Saar suggested to the President that he be the patron of the next games of rural sports to be held on 18-20 July 2003.
Press Service of the Office of the President
Kadriorg, February 27, 2002
