Medvedev wishes Russia’s Olympians good luck
Published 29 July, 2008, 15:31
President Dmitry Medvedev has bid Russia’s 467 Olympians good luck during a farewell reception at the Kremlin, ahead of the Beijing Games.
“I’m convinced that in Beijing the Russian team will show its best sporting qualities. Go ahead Russia! And good luck to you and all of Russia!” Dmitry the Russian president said.
Olympic flag-bearer Andrey Kirilenko from the Russian basketball team presented Dmitry Medvedev with Russia’s 2008 Olympic mascot – a toy called Cheburashka – and an Olympic shirt.
He also spoke to the fellow sportsmen, addressing perhaps the entire nation.
“From all the Olympians I would like to thank those who believe in us. We are proud of our country and want Russia to be proud of us. I think everybody will agree that what you feel while standing on the podium can’t be put into words. I wish that at the Beijing Games the Russian anthem is heard as often as possible!” Kirilenko said.
The sportsmen all said they want to do their ultimate best to secure as many gold medals for Russia as possible.
Some of them will rely on their sharp backhand, some hope victory is a hop, skip and long jump away, and some are lifting their hopes – literally.
Under the watchful eyes of their coach, a former Olympian himself, Russia's weightlifting team train four hours a day – and the coach says they're ready to win.
“It’s been tough, and we won’t make predictions. But we're going there for medals. Gold medals,” says David Rigert, coach.
Cheburashka – the mascot of Russia's Olympic team
But the Russian Olympic team is not only strong in muscle.
The small, agile gymnasts have always been the country's forte.
Olga Kanaeva’s surname is just one letter different from her predecessor and Olympic champion Alina Kabaeva.
Coach Irina Viner sees this as a good omen but refuses to give predictions.
Russia’s synchronised swimmers have certainly impressed the crowds at home – and only days remain until they will have their chance to impress the Olympic judges.
“The training has been tough. But we're going to fight with everything we've got. No predictions – but we are going to perform our very best,” says Olympian Olga Kuzhela.
The 2008 Olympic Games in Beijing are due to start on August 8.
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