I.Metshin: "A new sports era has begun in Russia"

(KZN.RU, February 24, by Ekaterina Andreyeva). At today's Business Monday meeting, Mayor of Kazan Ilsur Metshin congratulated the Russian national team and all the sports organizers on their unconditional victory at the Winter Olympics in Sochi.

The head of the city said that the 22nd Winter Olympic Games in Sochi had been triumphant in all respects – the organization, preparation, conduct and hospitality. "There were a lot more pessimists at the start,” said I. Metshin. “But with each passing day, the world media talked confidently about the perfection of their organization. The President of the Olympic Committee repeatedly noted the absence of complaints. The athletes also praised the Olympics.”

Ilsur Metshin expressed gratitude to the Russian team, which in a difficult struggle took the leading position. In total, our team won 33 medals: 13 gold, 11 silver and 9 bronze. This result allowed the hosts to win the Games both in the team overall count and in the total number of gold medals.

"This is a powerful emotional lift for the whole of Russia. The whole country rooted for the national team of Russia, watching it slowly but surely rise," said I. Metshin. I should add that, according to Sports Minister Vitaly Mutko, our team counted on fifth place. "This is the minimum of gold medals that the Russian team hoped to win," Ilsur Metshin commented on the statement. "But at home, even the walls help,” continued the Mayor of Kazan. “Our athletes mustered courage. Of course, there was a huge crowd support. And we took an absolute, perfect first place. Our team created a furor. All participants deserve respect and evoke a sense of pride for our country."

"Everything indicates that a new era has begun for Russian sports. While Kazan has rekindled love for summer sports, Sochi – for winter. God willing, the promotion of a healthy lifestyle, regular physical exercise and games makes good progress across Russia. Our Universiade and the Winter Olympics in Sochi mark the start of a new sports era in the country," concluded the Mayor.