Minister Tsvetkov Supported the Participation of the Bulgarian ATV Pilots in “Dakar 2011” Race
02.06.2010
The Minister of Transport, Information Technology and Communications Aleksandar Tsvetkov presented today the Bulgarian participants in the world race “Dakar 2011”. Todor Hristov and Petar Tsenkov will participate in the Dakar race under the aegis of the Transport Minister. By doing so, the popularizing of their participation in the race will be supported. The race is broadcasted in 168 countries and watched by more than milliard viewers.
During the press conference Minister Tsvetkov said Bulgarians’ success must be supported and encouraged regardless of what area they are in, they should be encouraged by the society, the government and the media. I stand behind two people I know will represent Bulgaria with dignity and will bring joy to all fans. The success of the Bulgarians pilots is vast and I will try through the institution I represent to help them as much as possible, Aleksandar Tsvetkov added.
For a first time in the history of the most prestigious race Bulgarian ATV pilots will participate. This is the 33rd edition of the legendary race, which after being held for many years in Africa, was moved to South America in 2009. The Bulgarian contestants have been invited to be part of the biggest European team – the French MD Rally Sport, whose owner and manager also took part in the press conference.
The Bulgarian pilots Todor Hristov and Petar Tsenkov have participated in more than 20 international races in the last 2 years. They had won awards in Greece, Italy, Romania and Germany. Todor Hristov is an off-road champion of Bulgaria and Greece for 2009. In Greece the Bulgarians set a world record in a 24 hour racing in the heaviest off-road competition “24 hours in Athens” – 1000 km.
The Bulgarians preparation for “Dakar 2011” race includes more participations until the end of the year in marathon races in Romania and Greece. The most important requirement of the “Dakar” organizers is participation in European or World Cup races. Hristov and Tsenkov had already won European rounds but the most important test for them will be the October race in Morocco, “Shamrock 2010,” which is part of the World Championship.
For additional information:
Kostadin Vardev, Press Centre,
Ministry of Transport, Information Technology
and Communications
Phone: + 359 2 940 96 20
E-Mail: kvardev @mtitc.government.bg |