In an interview with qazathletics.kz, Alexander Ektov, the head coach of the North Kazakhstan Region track and field team, answered questions regarding the team’s upcoming performance at the VI Youth Games, scheduled for June 19-21.
– How is the North Kazakhstan Region team’s final stage of preparation for the VI Republican Youth Games going?
– The North Kazakhstan Region will be represented by a team of 11 athletes. Since June 9, they have been training in the city of Almaty.
– What difficulties does the team face during the preparation?
– The main difficulty for any team during such a period is the lack of an accessible training base that would allow athletes of all track and field disciplines to prepare in one location. Accessibility and logistics play a crucial role in sports, including track and field.
– What goals have you set for the team for the upcoming competition?
– Our main goal at the VI Youth Games is to win 8 medals. The results of this performance will also influence funding for the next year.
– Which athletes from North Kazakhstan are particularly pleasing you with their progress?
– There is one important point when it comes to promising and talented athletes. Potential and talent develop only when they are backed by consistent hard work during training. Without that, it’s difficult to predict where such an athlete will be in a year or two.
– Then let me ask: in what cases do you feel that your expectations have been met?
– As a coach, I would like talented children to at least reach the level of Master of Sports. Last year, we had one athlete achieve this title in the 400-meter hurdles. This year, there are two: one in the 100-meter hurdles and one in the 1500 meters. But equally important is the development of personal qualities in each of my students.
– And in your opinion, what contributes to building "team spirit" at major events like the Youth Games?
– I believe that at comprehensive competitions like the Youth Games, the sense of unity comes from the understanding that you’re competing alongside athletes from other sports within your own region.
