Belarus’ NOC congratulates skier on Paralympics gold

MINSK, 10 March (BelTA) – President of the National Olympic Committee Viktor Lukashenko has congratulated Raman Svirydzenka on the Belarusian team’s first gold award at the 14th Winter Paralympic Games in Italy, the NOC press service told BelTA.

The 21-year-old athlete emerged victorious in the LW2-LW9 categories (standing athletes with limb impairments). In the final Raman Svirydzenka was ahead of skiers from Germany, France, China, Norway, and Canada. Belarusian athletes use national symbols during the competitions.

“Your courage, strength of spirit, and skill inspire millions of Belarusians, who support you wholeheartedly and proudly watch the performances of the Paralympians. Despite all the difficulties during the qualification, you managed to pull yourself together and show your best in the final of the tournament,” the NOC head noted. “Thanks to this triumphant victory, for the first time in a long time the anthem of our country was played and our flag was raised at the Paralympics. The entire Belarus is proud of you.”

A total of over 600 athletes from 55 countries, including four Belarusian skiers, are taking part in the 14th Winter Paralympic Games in Italy. On 11 March, 10km interval start classic will be held on the Tesero track. Relay races are scheduled for Saturday, 14 March, and individual 20km freestyle races will take place on 15 March.