From October 16 to 23 in Maykop, Republic of Adygea, the S.G. Alifirenko Shooting and Benchrest Shooting Sports School hosted the Russian Cup for Deaf Sports in the discipline of bullet shooting for men and women. Athletes from 15 regions of Russia participated in this prestigious event.

The opening ceremony included Andrey Borodin, Deputy Chairman of the Republic of Adygea’s Committee on Physical Culture and Sports, Victor Mitrii, Chairman of the Adygeya Regional Branch of ARSFSD, and Sergey Alifirenko, Olympic champion and Honoured Master of Sports of Russia. The school, hosting a deaf sports event of this level for the first time, prepared extensively under the guidance of its director, Rustam Kohuzhev. His efforts, alongside those of instructors Galina Butrova and Nina Chernykh, were instrumental in making the event a success.

For six days, shooters competed in 15 marksmanship disciplines, wh ere accuracy, endurance, and composure were key. Buryat and Yakut shooters consistently led, achieving high scores, with the Belgorod team close behind.

During a day off, participants and coaches enjoyed an excursion to the Lago-Naki Plateau, standing at nearly 2000 meters above sea level, the Big Azish Cave, and Guzeripl, despite the unpredictable weather.

The final day featured a mixed pairs competition. The Belgorod team excelled in air rifle shooting, winning not only this discipline but also the overall team championship.

Alexander Chernov, Head Coach of the Russian National Shooting Team, noted: “This first-ever Russian Cup was an excellent stepping stone for the athletes as they prepare for the Russian Championship. Starting as young as 13, shooters benefit from these competitions as psychological preparation. The event was a resounding success, and the shooting range in Maikop was well received by all.”