Dear friends,
"If you can't, then do more!" I'm sure you know this song. The band MIRAI received a nomination forthe "Anděl" Music Award for this song a few years ago. It also sings that "the word no-go doesn't exist". I think you understand the meaning of this lyric best. Athletes who have to train with even more intensity and dedication than those whose disability has not entered their lives. If you could study fighting, determination and unbreakability, you'd all be PhD's. You have my sincere respect and I am very pleased to be able to once again take over the patronage of the International Emil Open. Congratulations to all of you who will take home the awards and feel that glowing satisfaction after the fight. But congratulations to everyone else as well, because the fact that you are participating in this amazing event is a victory. Over all the hard things that have happened to you in your life. Whether it was bad luck, injustice or human stupidity. You have defeated these enemies. By being ableto rejoice, accept challenges and be an inspiration to others who are still struggling with their bad luck. I keep my fingers crossed for you and wish you all the success not only in sports but also in yourpersonal life.
Ivo Vondrák, Governor of the Moravian-Silesian Region
