Podcast in English
Text size
Bulgarian National Radio © 2024 All Rights Reserved

Olympic weightlifting medalist Velichko Cholakov passed away

Photo: library

Fans of sport in Bulgaria were saddened on Sunday by the news of the sudden death of Bulgarian weightlifting champion Velichko Cholakov, aged 35. 

Cholakov felt bad in the morning in his home and doctors were called but the emergency team could not save him. The weightlifter, also known as Iron Man, had a heart condition but the reason for his death is yet to be confirmed.

Velichko Cholakov was a bronze medalist from the Olympic Games in Athens in 2004 in the 105-kg category, which makes him the only Bulgarian Olympic medalist in weightlifting in this heaviest category. Cholakov also grabbed the world champion's title, as well as the European champion's title in the same category.


Последвайте ни и в Google News Showcase, за да научите най-важното от деня!
Listen to the daily news from Bulgaria presented in "Bulgaria Today" podcast, available in Spotify.

More from category

Radina Velichkova

Radina Velichkova wins gold in 100 m. sprint at European Athletics U18 Championship

Radina Velichkova, Bulgaria won the gold medal in the 100 metres sprint at the European Athletics U18 Championships in Banska Bystrica, Slovakia.  16-year old Velichkova clocked 11.46 seconds, setting a national record for girls for Bulgaria, and..

published on 7/20/24 10:07 AM

11 athletes represent Bulgaria at the European Transplant Games in Lisbon

The European Transplant Sport Championships will open in Lisbon on 21 July. Until 27 July, athletes from 28 countries will celebrate the victory of life over death, because one "yes" can save up to eight lives. There are a total of 15 disciplines..

published on 7/19/24 1:25 PM

Botev Plovdiv draws vs. Maribor, qualifies for Europa League second qualifying round

The holder of the Bulgarian Cup Botev Plovdiv qualified for the second qualifying round of the football tournament UEFA Europa League after a 2-2 draw against Maribor, Slovenia. In the first match Botev Plovdiv won by 2-1. In the 13 th..

published on 7/19/24 8:37 AM