UIPM Masters movement bounces back with Open European Championships in Chisinau (MDA)

After a fallow period when the movement struggled to gain post-pandemic momentum, UIPM’s magical Masters community has bounced back with a successful European Championships held in Chisinau (MDA).

The competition came out of an agreement between the European Modern Pentathlon Confederation and the Modern Pentathlon Federation of Moldova to transform a national Masters tournament into the Open European Masters Championships and host in the capital from October 20-22.

Responding to the call, 42 participants from 11 countries participated in Tetrathlon and Pentathlon in Individual, Team and Relay competitions within age groups 30+, 40+, 50+, 60+ and 70+. 

Alexei Vasilianov, President of the Moldova Federation, said: “It was an amazing opportunity for the Republic of Moldova to host the Open European Masters Championships, 2023.

“In spite of the fact there was little time for the event organisation, the Championships were held at a decent level, which became possible due to the full involvement, collaborative cooperation and support from a lot of parties, such as the Moldova Government (Ministry of Education, Culture and Research; Ministry of Health), UIPM and the European Confederation. As well the assets and resources of the Modern Pentathlon Federation of the Republic of Moldova.

“Looking back at these Championships we realise we are able and capable of organising further sports events at an international scale. I'd like to say thank you to everybody who participated, be it as an athlete or as an organiser. We are looking forward to new challenges together!"

Seasoned Masters competitors endorsed the event with a series of glowing testimonies.

Oleksii Iurchak of Ukraine said: “First of all, I would like to express my grateful words as an organiser of Masters competitions to the host of this European Championships. It was incredible! This was one of the best Masters competitions and I can say it as an athlete and as an organizer. 

“I know how much work has been done behind the scenes to welcome athletes and make them enjoy and feel like at home for four days. I hope Alexei will organise more international competitions in the future so more people can experience Moldavian hospitality.”

Nathalie Denoyes of France added: "A modern sports complex on the outskirts of Chișinau brought together Swimming in a magnificent 50m pool, Fencing and Laser Run, while Riding took its place on good, nervous, active horses within a quality equestrian centre.

“Thanks to the Moldovan federation, we're looking forward to the World Championships in Moldova!”