From December 15 to 20, the picturesque Bashkirian ski centre “Abzakovo” hosted the Cup of Russia in deaf sport alpine skiing discipline.

Fourteen athletes (7 women and 7 men) from seven regions of Russia - Moscow, Khanty-Mansi Autonomous District, Kamchatka Krai, Sakhalin, Moscow and Tambov Oblasts, as well as the Republic of Bashkortostan - competed on the steep, high-speed slopes.

The athletes competed in four days of competition in four disciplines of alpine skiing: super-G, super-combination (super-G + slalom), giant slalom, and slalom.

Despite stable weather throughout the days with light frost at the ski resort, heavy snowfall on the final day posed challenges for both organizers and participants of the competition. Nevertheless, most athletes managed to fulfil their duties and coaches' instructions honourably, despite some falls during the downhill runs.

The absolute champions of the Russian Cup at the year-end were Karina Gaidamashchuk from the Sakhalin Oblast and Pavel Kazakov from the Moscow Oblast, each winning four gold medals across all disciplines.

Oleg Ivanov, Head Coach of the Russian National Alpine Skiing Team: “It is gratifying that the ARSFSD provides full support in the development of a discipline of deaf sport such as Alpine skiing. This event was of great importance, both in terms of competitive practice and in determining the athletes of the Russian national team's readiness for the upcoming season. Following such events, the national team coaches have an invaluable opportunity to assess the methods used in preparing the athletes during the off-season and, if necessary, make adjustments to the plans and training techniques for the top athletes. The leaders of deaf alpine skiing at these competitions have upheld their reputation. It was especially gratifying to see young athletes displaying signs of increased sportsmanship. I wish all our sportsmen a season free of injuries and successful performances at major sports competitions”.

Results of winners and prize-winners of all competitions can be found here.

Text: Nurlan Tazhigulov, Olga Troinikova

Photo and video: Elena Avramenko

Translation: Daria Kudelina