History as Croatia claims first ever Winter Deaf Olympics gold
- by croatiaweek
- in Sport
History as Croatians win first Winter Deaf Olympics gold (Photo: Private album)
The Croatian men’s deaf chess team has achieved an unprecedented sports success at the Winter Deaf Olympics, clinching Croatia’s first-ever Olympic gold in classic chess.
In the final showdown against Germany, the Croatians demonstrated incredible determination and skill, securing a draw with a score of 2-2.
Grandmaster Zlatko Klarić, International Master Branko Vujaković, FIDE Master Bogdan Božinović, along with Candidate Masters Toni Vujčić and team captain Goran Cechi, delivered excellent performances throughout the competition, showcasing advanced strategy in every match.
(Photo: Private album)
During the tournament, the Croatian chess players claimed victories against Kazakhstan, Serbia, Poland, Italy, and Hungary, while drawing with the teams of Ukraine and Germany.
(Photo: Private album)
“We are extremely proud to have won the gold Olympic medal, marking the first gold for Croatia at the Winter Deaf Olympics. I would like to thank all members of our team, as well as the leadership and staff of the Croatian Deaf Sports Association for their outstanding contribution and support during these incredible 13 days in Turkey, where we realised our sporting dream,” highlighted Goran Cechi, the team captain, after the historic victory.
(Photo: Private album)
(Photo: Private album)
As a reminder, Croatian deaf athletes are competing in the 20th Winter Deaf Olympics, held in Erzurum, Turkey. Croatia has already secured a medal in the rapid chess discipline (blitz). Bogdan Božinović, FIDE Master and member of the Croatian men’s deaf chess team, clinched a silver medal with a record of 7 wins and 4 draws in 11 rounds, remaining undefeated.
(Photo: Private album)
