Date: 12 October 2025

Location: Georgia, Rustavi, Central Park

Event Type: #BeActive Sports Village, held within the European Week of Sport (EWoS)

Organisers:

• Ministry of Sports of Georgia

• National Federation “Sport for All” (Georgia)

• Rustavi City Hall

Event Overview

The European Week of Sport (#EuropeanWeekofSport – #EWoS) marks its 10th anniversary across Europe, promoting healthy and active lifestyles among citizens. In Georgia, the Week is organised annually by the Ministry of Sports of Georgia and the National Federation “Sport for All.”

On 12 October, the #BeActive Sports Village was officially opened in Rustavi Central Park, welcoming hundreds of visitors over two days—children, parents, and coaches. Multiple themed zones were set up in the park, giving guests the opportunity to explore both physical and mind sports.

Participating Disciplines

More than 20 sports organisations and federations took part. The programme featured both traditional and modern disciplines, including:

 Frisbee, Table Tennis, Baseball, Kids’ Judo, Wushu, Fencing, Volleyball, Handball, Badminton, Orienteering, Water Sport “Dragon Boats,” Water Bicycles, and more.

A particular highlight was the Intellectual Sports Zone, showcasing Chess, Draughts, Backgammon, Go, and Mental Calculation Sport.

Federation’s Participation

The Mental Sports Calculating Federation of Georgia (MSCFG) joined the European Week of Sport for the first time, presenting an interactive Mind Sport station. The federation’s coaches and volunteers offered:

• Quick mental arithmetic drills;

• Abacus-based calculation demonstrations;

• Short “competition-format” tests—children raced against the clock to give correct answers;

• Informational flyers about Mental Calculation Sport.

The stand drew significant interest—dozens of children tried the challenges. Time-based mini-contests were held, and winners received special certificates and gifts. Federation representatives spoke with parents about the value of Mental Calculation Sport and its positive effects on memory, attention, concentration, and self-confidence.

We also introduced the World Association of Abacus and Mental Arithmetic (WAAMA), outlining its mission, membership pathways, and the appraisal/certification scheme, and shared links for further reading.

Guests and Hosts

The event was attended by:

• Representatives of the Ministry of Sports of Georgia;

• Leaders of Rustavi City Hall;

• The management team of the National Federation “Sport for All.”

The programme was complemented by an animators’ show, music, and children’s entertainment activities.

Outcomes and Significance

The federation’s participation once again demonstrated that Mental Calculation Sport is recognised as an intellectual and sporting discipline that develops children’s cognitive skills and emotional discipline.

The Mental Sports Calculating Federation of Georgia will continue to actively engage in similar initiatives, aiming to secure a lasting place for mind sports in Georgia alongside popular disciplines such as chess, draughts, and other intellectual sports.