Hovhannes Bachkov: My Olympic journey

With the Tokyo Olympics right around the corner, we are paying homage to our Olympians past and present, as they reflect on the incredible experiences they have gained from competing at the Olympic Games.

Today, Hovhannes Bachkov discusses his time at the 2016 Olympics in Rio, and also looks ahead to his upcoming appearance in Tokyo.

Can you describe what your Olympic Journey was like, and how did you feel after you were picked?

Bachkov: “It was an honour for me to participate in the Olympic Games and now I will participate for the second time in Tokyo. I had a very long and difficult road to the Olympics. Then when you finally earn a ticket, all of those difficulties are left behind. It is said that the one who knows how to wait is the one who reaches his goal.”

What were the preparations you made before the competition?

Bachkov: “I trained hard to fight well in the ring and raise the flag of our country. The one who participates in the Olympic Games is chosen from God among 1000 fighters, because of which we thank him.”

What were some of your memorable experiences at the Olympic Village?

Bachkov: “I remember one thing at the Olympic Games and I use this as an example so that every Olympian does not succumb to the glory that you feel during the Olympic Games.

“You are greeted as a star and as a champion and you should not succumb to this as it could interfere with you during the competition. You have to restrain yourself and stay humble so to not to fall from the regime. You have to be able to wait so that you become famous later, and I will repeat this strategy again.”

What advice can you give to the Olympians traveling to Tokyo this week?

Bachkov: “I can say one thing, I bided my time to compete in these games and it’s worth it because these are the top athletes and it’s an honour to be here. I advise everyone who travels to Tokyo to believe in God and do his job which he chose.”

Keep checking MTK Global throughout the week, as more Olympians past and present share their memories from their Olympic journeys.

(by Kristian von Sponneck)

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