BALKANIC HAND TO HAND OPEN CHAMPIONSHIP, SVINITA, MEHEDINTI COUNTY

Implementation period: April 15, 2023- present

Starting in 2023, every year we organize in Svinita, Mehedinti county, BALKANIC HAND TO HAND OPEN CHAMPIONSHIP. This sporting event is carried out in collaboration with Mehedinti County Council, Svinita City Hall, Golden Gloves Club Sports Association and Apollo Timisoara Sports Club Association, the National Federation of Trade Unions in the Penitentiary Administration and IPA Region 5 Cluj.

The championship has as its main objective, the practice of Hand to Hand sport as a means of reducing juvenile violence, bullying and the consumption of prohibited substances among children and young people. This championship has a positive evolution and sustainability, being already in its third edition (2025) and in addition to the main objective, we aim to create and strengthen international relations that allow for exchanges of experience, and collaborations between children and young people from different countries.

The objectives of the Balkanic Hand to Hand Open Championship in Svinița are formulated as both sporting, educational and community-based, being in line with the philosophy of the Romanian Hand to Hand Fighting Federation:

1. Development of the sport “Hand to Hand” in the Balkan area

• Promotion of this martial arts discipline in Romania and neighboring countries.
• Creation of an international competitive framework for athletes of all ages and levels.

2. Promotion of the spirit of fair play and respect

• Encouraging correct behavior both during the fight and outside of the competition.
• Formation of mutual respect between opponents, coaches and referees.

3. Creation of a safe environment for practicing contact sports

• Provision of equipment and regulations that protect the integrity of athletes.
• Formation of correct self-defense skills, but also self-control.

4. Strengthening relations between clubs and federations in the Balkan countries

• Strengthening cross-border cooperation between sports organizations.
• Periodic organization of joint events.

5. Promotion of an active life and education through sports

• Involvement of young people in organized physical activities.
• Discouraging antisocial behavior by providing a positive environment.

6. Supporting the local community and tourism in Svinița

• Attracting visitors and participants to the area.
• Valorizing the cultural and natural heritage of the Danube Gorge.