Gor Minasyan: We showed the world what Armenia can do

Armenian weightlifters who shone at Rio Olympics have returned home several days ago.

Silver medalists had a meeting with journalists today and talked about their great success, impressions of the Olympic Games and new goals.

Gor Minasyan

I have only good and bright memories of Rio. We had been preparing for the Olympic Games for a long time, and we met all expectations.

We’re happy that we raised our flag and showed the whole world what a small country like Armenia can do. We made a sensation, winning 1 gold and 3 silver medals.

Many people say that Gagik Tsarukyan gifted me an apartment in Gyumri. That apartment is neither a gift nor a charity act, but a result of my work. I did a lot for our country, and this is a corresponding reward.

We train with even more responsibility now, entering the training hall a few days earlier. Just because we are Olympic medalists doesn’t mean we can have long vacations.

Simon Martirosyan

I am very proud and happy for my family and myself that I have won a medal for my homeland.

I did what I was prepared to in Rio. Of course, I could have lifted more in the last attempts, but I am satisfied with my results. I hope we’ll have more medals next time.

Everyone welcomed us back so nicely, and I received plenty of attention in my home town. I was awarded Friend of Etchmiadzin medal. My uncle gifted me a car.