On march 4th at the unveiling of the WCG’s logo in the President Hall of RIA «Novosti» agency, the lovable cartoon characters of “Masha and the Bear” became the official WCG mascots.
This step will allow to attract the attention of children and their parents as well to the forthcoming multisport competitions, and in prospect – to martial arts and sports practicing.
“Masha and the Bear” cartoons have a huge audience, Head of World Combat Games 2013 Directorate Pavel Zhuravliov stated “The majority of viewings of this cartoon series in Internet are done by 30-45 years old males. Naturally they view the series together with their children. Masha and the Bear is an ideal example of relations between a child and an adult, a sensei and a disciple”.
Director General of Animaccord company Dmitry Loveyko said that “Masha and the Bear” series are popular not only in Russia, but abroad as well. The cartoon is already translated in 18 languages. It is assumed that the mascots will be popular with the visitors of the competition as well – anyone will be able to buy souvenirs with their depiction.
According to five-time world sumo champion Alan Karayev, recognizable cartoon series characters will remain for a long time in memory of spectators and athletes as the Games mascots “I attended a lot of various competitions. Each of them had its own mascots, but neither had such memorable and bright characters”.
Two-time world wushu champion Daria Tarasova spoke about the WCG values…
“The event presents official sports of international federations. Competitions of such level reflect such notions as respect, technical skill and self-control. Even our magnificent mascots stand for these values, guided by which the World Combat Games 2013 will be held”.
