The Cyprus Adopt An Athletes scheme launched by Cyprus Olympics Commitee in May 2019, the scheme aims to raise money for Cypriot athletes participating in or aiming to take part in next year’s Olympic Games in Tokyo has generated €300,000 (£268,000/$357,000).
The money raised so far will allow athletes to focus their attention on training and qualification efforts.
“We are very proud of the committee’s efforts and the success of the Adopt an Athlete programme,” said Cyprus Olympic Committee President Dinos Michaelides said, as reported by Cyprus Mail.
“I want to thank and congratulate everyone who has been working hard to make this initiative a success.”
The scheme was extended following the postponement of Tokyo 2020 due to the coronavirus pandemic.
Andri Sialou, the Adopt An Athlete programme manager, thanked those who had joined the scheme and urged other companies and organisations to do the same.
“We want to thank everyone who has joined the programme,” he said.
“Their contribution is extremely valuable.
“I know this first hand, being a former athlete myself.”
Cyprus have struggled to make a mark at the Olympics, only earning one medal in the history of the Games.
This came after Pavlos Kontides earned a silver medal at London 2012 in the men’s laser sailing event.
The country sent 16 athletes to Rio 2016 across seven sports.
Competition is now scheduled to take place from July 23 to August 8 2021.
