"Heroic Games": Sports and patriotism brought together Bulgarian children from 4 countries in Nesebar

09.06.2026 | Sport

More than 80 children from historical Bulgarian communities gathered in Old Nesebar for the sports and patriotic camp "Heroic Games," organized by the Executive Agency for Bulgarians Abroad.

Снимка от Tysto, Wikimedia Commons (Public domain)

A New Beginning for the Bulgarian Community Abroad

Old Nessebar has become a magnet for young Bulgarians from four countries. The Executive Agency for Bulgarians Abroad launched the "Heroic Games" (Yunashki Igri) sports and patriotic camp – an initiative that brings together young people under the Bulgarian flag, united by common roots and historical memory.

"Heroism in Bulgaria is not just about sports. It is also about love for one's kin and homeland, knowing one's roots, one's past, and one's ancestors," said the Agency's Executive Director, Raina Mandzhukova.

What does the "Heroic Games" program include?

About 80 children from Ukraine, Moldova (Taraclia), Serbia (Tsaribrod and Bosilegrad), and the Banat Bulgarian villages in Romania are participating in the four-day camp. The initiative was developed in collaboration with the National Sports Academy and represents a major return to tradition following the pause imposed by the pandemic.

According to the Rector of the NSA, Prof. Krasimir Petkov, the games are a symbol of the elevation of human will and a new way of thinking intended to inspire young people to return to Bulgaria more often.