Page 164 - BOOK OF THE YEAR 22-23

MEET & GREET

MEETING WITH H.E. MR
STEVO PENDAROVSKI,

PRESIDENT OF THE

REPUBLIC OF NORTH

MACEDONIA

lThe IFBB Balkan Championships
unfolded in the vibrant city of Skopje,
the capital of North Macedonia. The
event, which garnered a massive
turnout of participants, witnessed a
display of extraordinary athleticism as
competitors vied for the prestigious
title of Balkan Champion in their
respective categories. The diverse array
of contests showcased outstanding
performances across various disciplines,
including Bodybuilding, Men’s
Physique, Bikini Fitness, and Men’s
Classic Bodybuilding. However, the
excitement didn’t end there. The IFBB
Fitness Challenge - Speed Fit Rafael Santonja with the President of the Republic of North
Competition also took center stage, Macedonia,H.E. Mr. Stevo Pendarovski.
adding an extra layer of thrill to the
already adrenaline-pumping event.
The prestigious occasion was joined the Sports Agency, fostering stronger national sports bodies, promoting
by IFBB President, Santonja, who ties between the International fitness, and nurturing talent worldwide.
expressed his delight at the amazing Federation of Fitness and Bodybuilding As a result of these discussions, it is
success of the championships. (IFBB) and the sports authorities in expected that the sport of
During his visit, Dr Santonja , joined North Macedonia. The exchange of bodybuilding and fitness in North
by IFBB General secretary , Ralph ideas and perspectives aimed to Macedonia will witness growth and
Decelis, and the President of the North promote the growth of bodybuilding recognition, inspiring more athletes to
of Macedonia Fitness and Bodybuilding and fitness in the country and pursue their passion and represent
Federation, Mr. Boban Goroski ,was strengthen the overall sporting their country on the global stage.
honored, visiting President of the landscape. Beyond the institutional and
Republic of North Macedonia,H.E. Mr. President Santonja’s meetings with competitive aspects, the IFBB Balkan
Stevo Pendarovski, in a very interesting Mr. Bogoevski and Mr. Mojsovski Championships served as a platform for
meeting hold at President residence, allowed them to explore potential cultural exchange and camaraderie
which marked a significant moment of collaborations and initiatives to further among nations. Athletes from different
recognition for the sport of fitness and support and develop the sport at both backgrounds came together,
bodybuilding and its impact on the national and international levels. They transcending borders and language
society as a healthy lifestyle. discussed strategies to encourage barriers, united by their common love
President Santonja took the more young athletes to participate in for fitness and a healthy lifestyle. The
opportunity as well to meet with key bodybuilding and fitness, emphasizing spirit of sportsmanship and mutual
figures in the sporting community of the importance of fitness and a healthy respect prevailed throughout the event,
North Macedonia, as Mr. Vladimir lifestyle among the youth. showcasing the positive values and
Bogoevski, the Sports Director of the The meetings with these prominent principles upheld by the international
Macedonian Olympic Committee, and officials reflect the IFBB’s commitment fitness and bodybuilding community.
Mr. Naumche Mojsovski, the Director of to establishing strong relationships with

Some interesting moments from the IFBB meeting with H. E. Mr. Stevo Pendarovski.

162 2022/2023 BOOK OF THE YEAR