The International Ski Camp in Russia

Kategori: Russia

The training camp for young skiers from Russia, Sweden an Estonia was held in July in Sport Complex “Abzakovo” (Ural Mountains). Russian representatives were athletes from Ural region and skiers of Ugra, Swedish representatives were students of Ostersund’s Ski Gymnasium (including champions of Sweden in their age groups), Estonian representatives were students of Yaakah Myaeh’s Ski School. One of the organizers of the camp and the head of Russian office of Craft, Kent Torngvist, shared impressions of the event with us.

-What impressions do you have after the camp?
-I think, we were a success with it! Swedish children were in Russia first time. They knew about this country only from history books. And what they had seen is very completely different from their imagine about this country. The main my impression after camp was a true friendship. It was amazing! Because they had a language barrier. However, some Russian guys could speak in English, and there were coaches, who spoke in Russian, Sweden and English languages. Swedes were surprised about quality of training run-sand circles, quality of accommodation and food in Abzakovo. Coaches and athletes said: “Maybe here is better, then at home”. (Laughing). Usually on TV you can see only negative… for example: fear of Russian dishes. But on the second or third day they enjoyed it. Firstly children were afraid to go to Russia. But when they had seen that there was in fact, and they radically changed their attitude. For example: if they will be invited on the World Cup in Russia, they will be there! And won’t the situation as now in Rybinsk, in which foreigners are afraid just because of ignorance.

-What was the role of Craft in conducting the camp?
-Our company supported with a small sponsorship. In the future Craft also going to participate in such events. Because juniors are the future of ski racing and the future elite athletes. We are happy to help them! 

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