28.09.2015 Rain is not an obstacle for athletes!

Last Sunday the weather in Smolensk could upset anyone except the fans of sports and exercise. Despite heavy rain hundreds of Smolensk residents took part in the All-Russian day of running "Cross of the Nation", thereby supporting the commitment of the regional Head Alexey Ostrovskiy and regional authorities to turn Smolensk region into a territory of healthy lifestyle.

Welcoming the most persistent participants, Deputy Governor – Head of the Administrative Office of the regional Administration Lev Platonov said: "It is impossible to live without sports. When in every day life we wish our dearest and nearest to be healthy, we should understand that it is not just words and wishes. It is the requirement of time: sport must be an integral part of everybody’s life!".

Traditionally, "Cross of the Nation" started with the races for professional athletes for 12, 8 and 6 kilometers. The Russian record holder in a 100 kilometers race, the resident of Roslavl Vasiliy Larkin won in the men's race. The women's race was won by the international master of sports in summer biathlon, winner of European and World Championships, Cup of Russia in cross-country race Natalya Solovyova.

The winners received cups, medals and certificates from the Ministry of Sports of Russia.

On the same day the fans of athletics, which is considered to be the Queen of sports, in Vyazma and Dukhovshchina also took part in the "Cross of the Nation" just like the residents of the regional center.