President of Belarus’ NOC, 2014 Olympics champions attend festive events in Sochi
19:38, 7 February
photo: BELTA
President of the Belarusian National Olympic Committee Viktor Lukashenko and Olympic champions Alla Tsuper and Anton Kushnir took part in the events marking the 10th anniversary of the 22nd Olympic Winter Games, BelTA learned from the press service of the NOC.
- Share on Facebook
- Share on VK
- Share on Twitter
On 7 February, Russia celebrates Winter Sports Day. The date was chosen on purpose: it was on this day in 2014 that Sochi hosted the opening ceremony of the 22nd Winter Olympic Games. Today, Sochi is celebrating the 10th anniversary of the Games. President of the Belarusian NOC Viktor Lukashenko took part in the opening of the holiday as a guest of honor.
"The Games in Sochi were very memorable for Belarus. We made it to the top ten countries, and I hope that in the future we will be able to repeat or even surpass this success. Our athletes became true heroes, showed their best results," said Ksenia Sankovich, Secretary General of the NOC. “A big advantage of the Sochi Games was the proximity, both in terms of geography and mindset. There was no need to get used to the new cuisine, the difference in time zones. For our fans, the Olympics was quite accessible, many came from Belarus to cheer for the athletes. I would like to note that the Russians also supported our team."
Ten years ago, the Sochi Olympics brought together almost 3,000 athletes from 88 countries who competed in 98 medal events. With five gold and one bronze medals Team Belarus showed their best ever result. Belarus placed eighth in the overall medal standings. Daria Domracheva became three-time Olympic champion in Sochi by winning the pursuit, individual and mass start. Alla Tsuper and Anton Kushnir earned gold medals in aerials.
"It is with great pleasure that I recollect my performance in Sochi. Ten years flew by in an instant. I think it was important for our country to win then. Every time I come back here, I get a lot of positive emotions," Anton Kushnir said. "I thank the organizers for inviting us to the Winter Sports Day."
"It's nice to take part in such an event here in Sochi and remember how it all was. For me, it was the fifth Games and the gold medal was the most long-awaited gift. I want to wish all young people to go in for sports and believe in themselves. Don't give up and press toward your goals, guys!" Alla Tsuper added.
