October 29, 2009 - 21:49 AMT
Olympic champion Vladimir Engibaryan honored in Yerevan
Children and Youth boxing school of Olympic reserve named after Vladimir Engibaryan marked its 50th anniversary today, in the reception hall of the government of Armenia.

The event was attended by the Armenia's president Serzh Sargsyan, NKR President Bako Sahakyan, the Olympic champion of 1956, Vladimir Engibaryan, Armenia's defense minister Seyran Ohanyan.

Serge Sargsyan awarded Vladimir Engibaryan with the medal of first degree "For merits before Fatherland" and Bako Sahakyan handed the legendary boxer the medal of "Vachagan Barepasht". RA Defense Minister Seyran Ohanyan, in turn, awarded the Olympic champion with the medal "Marshal Baghramyan".

"I arrived in Armenia two days ago, and there are some talented boxers among the school pupils. I wish that school pupils continue to delight us with their victories. To do this we must treat each other with love and respect. I wish all the boxers good luck and health," Mr. Engibaryan said, adding that young people will succeed only if they work hard.

According to school director Suren Ghazaryan, the school, from its foundation to date, continues to produce talented boxers who represent Armenia in the international arena.

Since 1965, the sports school has produced 3-champions of the former Soviet union, as well as many award winners and world champions.

Vladimir Engibaryan, Olympic champion, three-time European champion, three-time champion of the USSR. Honored Master of Sports of the Soviet union (1956). He had 267 fights, 255 out of them he won. Since 1993, he lives in Los Angeles (California, USA).