Legendary Iranian wrestler’s birthday named ‘National Day of Wrestling’

The birthday of late legendary Iranian freestyle wrestler Gholam Reza Takhti, who was born roughly a century ago, has been named Iran’s ‘National Day of Wrestling.’

“After four years of strenuous efforts by the Islamic Republic of Iran Wrestling Federation (IRIWF), Shahrivar 5 (August 27) is now celebrated as the National Day of Wrestling in the country,” Seyyed Mohammad Reza Mavalizadeh, Secretary of the Public Culture Council, said.

Takhti, the most famous wrestler in the Iranian history, was born on August 27, 1930 and passed away on January 7, 1968.

The Iranian nation was stricken with deep grief, when news of Takhti's death broke.

The legend was known for his chivalry and sportsmanship and continues to symbolize the essence of sports to the Iranian people.

Takhti claimed the gold medal in Melbourne 1956 Olympic Games, overcoming Boris Kulayev from the Soviet Union in the final contest of the 87-kilogram weight section.

He also claimed two Olympics silver medals in 1952 Helsinki and 1960 Rome.

Takhti won two World Championships gold medals in 1959 Tehran and 1961 Yokohama as well.

The IRIWF hosts an international wrestling tournament in memory of the legendary wrestler every year.

The 37th edition of Takhti Cup was held in Iran’s northeastern shrine city of Mashhad between January 19 and 20, 2017.

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