KAZAN – With a spectacular backdrop of the Kazan CBD skyline, a loud and enthusiastic crowd cheered on students competing in athletics events at the Central Stadium yesterday.
Jussi Viita from Finland sought shade from the day’s 29-degree heat in between jumps, speaking to the coaches on the sideline and then taking shelter once again with the other competitors.
One exception was Australian high-jumper Nikola Bojic, who seemed undistracted by the penetrating sunshine, taking time to sit out in the sun and stretch between rounds.
It seemed to work as Bojic breezed through the qualification round, taking four jumps and clearing 2.20m.
Russian athletes also seemed to take the warm weather in their stride, with Alina Prokopyeva winning silver for Women’s 10,000m race on the day, and Natalie Pichkova coming in at fifth.
Russia’s Alexander Lesnoi and Valeriy Kokoev also took out gold and bronze for Men’s shotput.
Volunteers, other athletes, local and international spectators slapped on the sunscreen and tirelessly supported the athletes from all countries throughout the day with chanting, cheering, and even doing the wave.
The greater-Europe athletes, who are yet to make their mark in the track and field awards, can look forward to the next few days with weather expected to cool down with chance of rain.
Leigh Ferguson/FISU Young Reporter (AUS)
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