2013 SU Update: Kazan Hosts Russian Sports Forum

“Russia – Country of Sports” is the name of the first Russian sports forum which was held in Kazan from October 22nd to 24th, 2009.

The forum has become a significant sport event, not only in Russia, but even beyond it. A lot of representatives of the sports world, 1,500 sportsmen, heads of the international sport federations and more than 100 journalists took part in the forum.

As mentioned the president of the Russian Federation Dmitry Medvedev in his opening speech: “It is highly symbolic that this major event takes place in Kazan – a city which is well-known for its sports traditions, being the capital of the XXVII Summer Universiade in 2013. We do a lot in Russia for the development of sports infrastructure: we build new stadiums and swimming pools, skating rinks, sports and recreation centers. Both professional and mass sports become increasingly popular, especially among young people. More and more people make their choice in favour of a healthy life-style and try to reach harmony between their spirit and body.”

Russian President Medvedev talks to the ISF Presidents (left FISU Vice-President Bergh)

FISU Vice–Presidents Mr. Stefan Bergh and Mr. Hassan Chikh, FISU Secretary-General/CEO Mr. Eric Saintrond and of course Assessor Oleg Matytsyn attended the Forum. They had an opportunity also to see the opening of 3 venues built for the 2013 Universiade, i.e. the Tennis Academy, the Wrestling Palace and sport hall and ice rink “Zilant”.

Russian President Dmitri Medvedev

Opening Ceremony Tennis Academy

The Kazan Tennis Academy