With the first second of the New Year Košice became European City of Sport (ECS) 2016. The main ambition for successfully justifying this title is to get Košice people moving, no matter the age category, and encourage them to do some sport as an effective basis for a healthy life style. The City intends to develop traditional events, and initiate new ones in cooperation with the organizers, as well as investing in new sports facilities. “Our eastern metropolis is already a city of sport, but in gaining the prestigious title of European City of Sport 2016 we want to show the rest of Europe that Košice people do sport all year round, but in addition we want to attract as many children, young families and seniors as possible to sports events, get them into active sporting and a healthier life style as well,” says City Mayor Richard Raši.
While last year's city budget approved by the City Council set aside 871 000 euros for developing and supporting various sporting activities, in 2016 the amount will be increased by 384 000 euros. The total amount for sport will thus be 1 255 000 euros, i.e. a 44 per cent increase compared with 2015.
The grand ECS opening ceremony took place yesterday, January 6, downtown, and was also attended by U. S. Steel Košice President Scott D. Buckiso.