The Technical University of Moldova Sports Complex recently kicked off the UTM Championship for the 2024-2025 academic year. The event began in a ceremonial atmosphere with the student anthem “Gaudeamus,” attended by faculty members from the Department of Physical Education and Sport and over 300 enthusiastic participants, including students and high school pupils.
The opening ceremony welcomed UTM’s Vice-Rector for Digitalization, Mr. Dinu Țurcanu, who inspired the participants with his words and underscored the university’s commitment to extracurricular activities. “At UTM, we believe in fostering not just academic excellence, but the holistic development of our students, including through sports,” Mr. Țurcanu remarked. He proudly pointed out that UTM stands out as the only higher education institution in Moldova that hosts an annual internal championship encompassing at least 13 different sports disciplines.
UTM’s achievements on the sports scene are undeniable, with the university excelling in national, university, and international competitions. Year after year, UTM students become champions and medalists at world, European, and Balkan championships, thereby enhancing the university’s reputation beyond academic halls. A new addition to this year’s championship was also announced by Mr. Țurcanu: starting this year, students who place first through third will be rewarded not only with diplomas but also with monetary prizes to further motivate participation in sports competitions.
The first event of the championship, the UTM Cross, kicked off right after the ceremony. The 500-meter women’s race featured nine heats with a total of 108 participants, while the 1000-meter men’s race saw 225 students competing in nine intense heats. Even as the final races took place nearly in darkness due to the large number of participants, the team spirit and fair play were outstanding, and the atmosphere remained vibrant and energetic.
The winners of the 500- and 1000-meter races were then announced. In the 500-meter women’s category, the top three positions were claimed by:
1. First Place – Elena Nedelcu, Faculty of Computers, Informatics, and Microelectronics
2. Second Place – Ana-Maria Nedelea, Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Business
3. Third Place – Valeria Lîsîi, UTM College
In the 1000-meter men’s race, the podium was dominated by students from UTM College and CUTM:
1. First Place – Dorin Grădinaru, UTM College
2. Second Place – Ștefan Chiparuș, CUTM
3. Third Place – Vasile Arcel, CUTM
These talented athletes showcased their ability to thrive both academically and athletically, embodying the balance between education and physical activity.
Following the awards ceremony, the draw for the UTM Men’s Basketball Championship took place. The championship will begin on Monday, October 28, and bring together 10 faculties along with the UTM College team for five days of competitive play.
Faculty members from the Department of Physical Education and Sport congratulate all participants, encouraging them to continue embracing an active and healthy lifestyle.
Stay tuned for more updates on UTM students’ achievements in this championship and beyond!