The Cauldron is lit in Guzanli ©Baku 2015

The Baku 2015 European Games Flame has arrived in the ancient town of Agdam marking the completion of the first third of its journey across Azerbaijan.

Coinciding with the birthday of the country’s former President Heydar Aliyev, the Flame reached its 20th location for another evening of festivities.

The day’s first Torchbearer, Saleh Gurbanov, began his run carrying the Flame on its way across the village of Guzanli, before passing it to Najaf Najafgulubeyli, who posed in front of famous Agdam symbol, "the home of tea".

The 3.02 kilometres route, which started on Heydar Aliyev Avenue, continued with Akbar Garayev, Alim Aslanov, Fedai Aliyev, Zafar Imanov, Sabuhi Jafarzade, Nihad Ahliyyatzade, Gazanfar Gazanfarli, Samir Nazarov and Khayyam Gurbanov.

Gurbanov brought the Torch to the stage in Flag Square for the ceremonial lighting of the lamp, which will remain on display there until the Closing Ceremony of the Games on June 28.

Karabakh horses are synonomous with Agdam
Karabakh horses are synonomous with Agdam ©Baku 2015

Former judoka Nazarov believes the “innovative and strategic planning” of Azerbaijan President Ilham Aliyev was pivotal in bringing the inaugural European Games to the country. 

“When our current President came into power he said: ‘Azerbaijan will be one of the great sport countries’,” he said.

“Today we all witnessed that. 

“To be honest, I never expected to be chosen [as] a Torchbearer.

“I’d like to thank those who trusted me.

“I am [a] former judo athlete and that’s why these Games have a special interest for me.

“I’ll watch the competition closely.

“I believe that our athletes will achieve a lot of success.”

The Flame has completed the first third of its journey across Azerbaijan
The Flame has completed the first third of its journey across Azerbaijan ©Baku 2015

Official European Games mascots Jeyran and Nar joined the crowd as they were treated to entertainment and music from local artists as well as a signature fire show.

Local residents witnessed a performance by the Gizilgul Choir and toasted the former President, together with celebrity ambassadors.

Agdam, meaning white house, is an area in the north eastern flap of the Karabakh ridges, and is home to nine-time world and six-time European wrestling champion from the former Soviet Union, Jeyrun Mammaadov.

Its sporting prowess further extends to the Karabakh football team, who have represented Azerbaijan in several European tournaments and progressed to the group stages of the UEFA Europa League for the first time last season.

Karabakh horses, known for their sweet temperament and speed are synonymous with the region, and have played an important part in Azerbaijani history.

The journey of the Flame is due to continue to Zardab and Terter on Tuesday (May 12), for smaller welcome ceremonies.


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