First medalists ascend podium at “President’s Cup 2026” Canoe spring regatta in Sugovushan

The first medals have been acquired at the international canoe sprint regatta “President’s Cup 2026” that is currently being held in Azerbaijan's Sugovushan.

Azerbaijan is among the countries that have made it on the podium at the event, which is held in honour of National Leader Heydar Aliyev's 103rd birthday, Caliber.Az reports citing local media.

Paddler Alimurad Hajiyev secured second place in the men's 2008–2009 single kayak (K1) 200 metres race. This round was won by Maksim Ivliyev of Uzbekistan.

The President’s Cup is jointly organised by the Azerbaijan Water Sports Federation and the Ministry of Youth and Sports. More than 100 athletes are competing in the event from countries including the Czech Republic, Georgia, Germany, Greece, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Lithuania, Moldova, Romania, Serbia, Sweden, Tajikistan, Türkiye, Ukraine and Uzbekistan.

The final two stages of the regatta will take place in Mingachevir, with the competition set to conclude on May 1.

By Nazrin Sadigova