An European sambo championship will take place next week in Belgrade, Serbia and Montenegro.

Eighteen Bulgarian competitors will represent the country in the tournaments on April 15 and 16, BGNES Sport agency reported.

Nearly all Bulgarian representatives have medals from previous major championships. The Bulgarians trained in Belmeken, Moscow and Minsk. All of them are in good health and without traumas, coach Vassil Sokolov said.

European champions Elitsa Ruzheva and Snezhina Vassileva are among the competitors with highest medal chances. A week ago the two participated in an international competition in Moscow and won gold and bronze medals, respectively.

Sokolov said he expects competitors to win at least two European titles. The future winners will receive a 4000 leva prize. Silver and bronze medalists will also get financial award.

The European championship is the biggest challenge before the world tournament in the autumn. It will take place in Sofia.