Double Olympians’ awards, Ahmadinejad says

TEHRAN,July 19(MNA) – Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinijad has told Sports and Youth Affairs Minister Mohammad Abbasi to double the prizes that Iranian Olympic athletes receive. Ahmadinejad made the remarks at a ceremony held in Tehran at the Olympic Academy of Iran on Tuesday. The president paid tribute to the Iranian athletes who will compete in the London 2012 Olympic Games and told the sports minister to increase their awards, in the 10 days remaining to the event. “I demand Mr. Abbasi and Mr. Aliabadi (director of the Iran National Olympic Committee) to double the awards of the athletes. They have worked hard and deserve more for the work they do,” Ahmadinejad said. “The Iranian people are seeking morality and magnanimity. I hope that all of our athletes will do their best and our country will be honored by them. I am sure Iranian athletes can shine in the big event,” the president added. “You will have to be an example of humility and without a doubt you are well-prepared to get the best results in the event. I am fully aware of how you are ready for the Olympics, but it’s my duty to mention that you can conquer the highest peaks by trusting in God and having confidence in yourself and believing in yourself,” Ahmadinejad stated. The London 2012 Olympic Games will run from July 27 to August 12. Iran’s delegation will participate in the London Olympics with 54 athletes in 14 events.