Tymoschchenko named Sportsperson of the Year in Ukraine

Pavlo Tymoshchenko took a break from his World Cup and World Championship preparations to receive a very special award in his native Ukraine.

Tymoshchenko, the 2015 UIPM World Champion and current World No.1, was named “Sportsperson of the Year” at the prestigious Person of the Year awards.

Tymoshchenko, who will return from an injury-enforced competitive break at World Cup #4 in Kecskemet before aiming to defend his title at the World Championships in Moscow, received his award from legendary pole vaulter Sergey Bubka and made a speech in which he strongly urged the audience to take a closer interest in Modern Pentathlon ahead of the Rio Olympic Games where he will be a strong contender for gold.

“It is a big honour to be chosen among such great athletes,” said Tymoshchenko, who beat off competition from world Greco-Roman wrestling champion Jan Belenyk and world chess champion Mariya Muzychuk.

“I'm grateful to my coaches, my family and many other people. Without their support I would never have become world champion and would not be here.

“And finally, I know many of you don't know what Modern Pentathlon is. Please, look a little after the ceremony what kind of a sport this is. I'm sure it'll be interesting for you."