Varna, Bulgaria — Bulgaria’s gymnasts delivered an outstanding performance at the FIG World Challenge Cup in Varna, securing a total of five medals over the weekend and marking the nation’s most successful participation in the tournament’s history.
On Sunday, the final day of the competition, Bulgaria added two bronze medals to its tally. Veteran gymnast Eddie Penev earned third place in the vault final, while rising star Nikol Stoimenova captured the bronze medal on the balance beam, cementing Bulgaria’s place among the top-performing nations at the event.
The weekend’s victories brought Bulgaria’s final count to one gold, two silver, and two bronze medals. Eddie Penev had already made headlines on Saturday by claiming the gold medal in the floor exercise.
His brother, Kevin Penev, delivered a strong routine to finish second, taking silver in the same discipline. Meanwhile, European vice-champion Valentina Georgieva continued her impressive form with a silver medal in the women’s vault final.
“This is a historic achievement for Bulgarian gymnastics,” said Petar Dimitrov, head coach of the national team. “To reach ten finals and win five medals in such a prestigious international competition is a testament to the dedication, talent, and hard work of our athletes and coaching staff.”
Held in the Palace of Culture and Sports in Varna, the FIG World Challenge Cup attracted top gymnasts from over 30 countries, offering a critical platform for athletes to prepare for the upcoming European Championships in Leipzig, Germany, scheduled for May 26 to 31.
Eddie Penev, a seasoned competitor with dual American and Bulgarian citizenship, once again proved his consistency and technical skill. After dominating the floor routine on Saturday with a dynamic and precise performance, he followed up on Sunday with a well-executed vault that earned him his second medal of the tournament.
Stoimenova, who has emerged as one of Bulgaria’s brightest young prospects, impressed judges with her balance, composure, and clean execution on the beam. “It’s a great feeling to be on the podium, especially in front of a home crowd,” she said following the medal ceremony. “This gives me confidence for the European Championships later this month.”
The Penev brothers’ dual podium finish in the floor exercise was particularly emotional for fans and teammates, showcasing the strength of Bulgaria’s men’s team in a discipline that has traditionally been dominated by powerhouses like Japan and the United States.
Valentina Georgieva’s silver medal in the vault was also a highlight of the tournament. As the reigning European vice-champion, her consistency continues to place her among Europe’s elite gymnasts.
With just two weeks remaining before the European Championships, the strong results in Varna have boosted team morale and national expectations. The Bulgarian Gymnastics Federation praised the athletes and reaffirmed its support for their preparations for Leipzig.
“These results show we are on the right path,” said Federation President Ivan Lekov. “Our gymnasts are ready to compete at the highest level.”
As the team shifts its focus to the continental championships, Bulgaria’s athletes have proven they are serious contenders — and their performance in Varna will be remembered as a milestone in the nation’s gymnastics history.