The jubilee XXX Open Russian Swimming Cup in the MASTERS category started today at one of the facilities of the Volga Region State University of Physical Culture, Sports and Tourism - the Burevestnik sports complex.

More than 1100 participants from different regions of Russia were welcomed by Rector of the Volga Region University, Doctor of Economics Rafis Burganov, Head of the Department of Physical Culture and Sports Work and Project Implementation of the Ministry of Sport of the Republic of Tatarstan Roman Kapliyev, Vice-President of the All-Russian Swimming Federation, President of the Masters Swimming Federation Alexander Danilov.

The ceremony began with congratulations on the 80th birthday of Alexei Kameshkov, USSR Master of Sports in Swimming, Honoured Worker of Physical Culture of the Republic of Tatarstan, coach, director of the swimming pool "Orgsintez", judge of the All-Russian category, founder of the veteran swimming club "Idel".

"In any competitions there are winners and losers, but sometimes the victory over oneself is more significant than any competition. I wish, first of all, to win yourself, to succeed, to be a model and example for the younger generation. Do sports, be healthy!", - Roman Kapliyev, a representative of the regional Ministry of Sports, addressed the participants with parting words.

The Rector, in his turn, emphasised that the age threshold of the competition - 90 plus cannot but delight - the oldest participant of the competition is 93 years old. The athlete from Ryazan swam a distance of 1500 metres.

"You always cheerfully come to these competitions - so much respect, love sport. And today it is your way of life. I wish you good mood, achievement of your goals and support," emphasised Rafis Burganov, rector of one of Russia's leading sports universities.

Alexander Danilov congratulated on the jubilee - thirtieth Cup and thanked the Volga Region University for the reception.  

"This is the fifth time the Cup has been held in this pool. Let me thank Volga Region University on our behalf. You and I have passed the threshold in terms of the number of participants - 1165 people. I hope very much that there will be a whole placer of world records," said the president of the Masters Swimming Federation and wished a comfortable time and a successful swim.  

It should be noted that Tatarstan is represented by 80 athletes of different ages. 
The competition will last until 12 November.

Фото: Павел Железняк