More than 400 athletes from 38 countries and about 200 coaches are taking part in the European Weightlifting Championship during July 1-10. The Republic of Moldova for the first time is hosting a European championship in an Olympic event. Moldova is represented by about 40 young weightlifters, IPN reports.

The competition is intended for U-17 athletes. The participants are competing for the title of champion in different weight classes, both boys and girls. The event is held at the Chisinau Arena, the Weightlifting Federation of the Republic of Moldova has said.

At the end of last year, the European Weightlifting Federation decided that the event will take place in Moldova. The competition is held with financial support from the Ministry of Education and Research.