The swimmer with the highest number of participations in the Galata–Varna Marathon will be honored with a commemorative plaque in memory of NadezhdaParusheva.

The decision was taken by the Marathon’s Executive Bureau on the eve of the event, which will take place on July 26, 2026, in Bulgaria’s maritime capital, Varna. The event is organized by the Bulgarian swimming champion club PSC “Cherno More”, the Bulgarian Navy, and the Municipality of Varna.

For all who knew her, NadezhdaParusheva was a remarkable person and a true friend.

She passed away at the age of 89, just two months before witnessing the start of the Galata–Varna Swimming Marathon, to which she had devoted more than half a century of her rich and eventful life.

In today’s world, it is not easy to leave a lasting mark behind. Nadya did.

She lived and breathed the challenges of her beloved sport—swimming—and was wholeheartedly dedicated to its cause. People like her do not come along every day.

She was a distinguished sports administrator during those difficult years of the past, when someone had to keep things moving and solve complex issues. In more recent times, she served as an organizer and coordinator, demonstrating determination and innovation in putting together the puzzle of the many challenges and demands of modern-day sports.

Above all, Nadya was a good person. She was always ready to lend a helping hand, offer support, and move things forward whenever they became stuck. She knew every detail of the Galata–Varna Marathon from A to Z, and nothing escaped her attention.

She was critical when necessary, honest and straightforward, yet always well-intentioned and instructive in the interest of her beloved club, PSC “Cherno More.” Coaches, athletes, and parents loved her, knowing that whenever Nadya appeared, a solution to the problem would soon be found. She shared the emotions and passions that accompany the daily lives of all those dedicated to the cause of PSC “Cherno More,” one of Bulgaria’s most successful swimming clubs and multiple national champion.

She could effortlessly turn back the clock by half a century and tell stories about organizing her first marathon in 1970 or 1971.

“Swimming is my life,” Nadya often said.

And we say:

Nadya, we know you are watching over us from above, and that you are at peace. Because your path and your legacy will be carried forward with dignity.

Rest in peace.