BUL - Dark day for Bulgarian basketball with passing of Mihov and Gjurova

GENEVA/SOFIA - 30 March 2011 will be remembered among the saddest days in the history of the Bulgarian Basketball Federation (BFB).

BFB announced with great sadness on Wednesday the passing of the President of the Federation Mihail Mihov and ex-national team player Krassimira Gjurova.

Mihov, who deditcated much of his life to the game investing enormous amounts of his time resources and passion, died age 47 following a severe hart attack.

From the day of his election as President of the Bulgarian Federation back in 2008 to his tragic death, he invested all his energy, experience and initiative in the re-birth of Bulgarian basketball and its transformation into a favorite sport among the youth.

In a statement the BBF stated: "His death leaves a huge emptiness in the souls of all players, coaches, referees, club officials and sports people in Bulgaria and abroad where he proudly represented Bulgaria on many occasions."

Gjurova, an ex-national team player, bronze medalist from the Olympic Games in Monthreal (1976), national champion with “Akademic Sofia”, and a member of staff of the Bulgarian Federation, also passed away on Wednesday, following a long and brave struggle against illness at the age of 57. Krassi was known for her hard work and big friendly hart.

FIBA Secretary General and IOC Member Patrick Baumann said:"This has been a dark day not only for Bulgarian basketball but for all who believe in and work towards the future of the game.

"While these two colourful personalities will leave a feeling of emptiness behind them, they will live on through their achievements, leaving a legacy for basketball in Bulgaria. FIBA's thoughts are with their friends and families."

FIBA