The final of the Russian Cup 2016 took place in the city of Izhevsk to decide who will represent Russia at the upcoming World Championships in Sweden which is the qualifier for 2017 World Games in Poland. 10 months of qualifications in all Russian regions come to an end when 245 male and female final athletes paraded into the stadium. The opening ceremony was a display of the rich Russian culture and traditions, showcasing one of the oldest martial arts in the world, muaythai.The event was live telecast with many VIPs from sport and private sector filling the VIP section. The stadium was packed to the last seat and everyone standing up when athletes walked in the arena.

.Тайский бокс Кубок России и Всероссийские соревнования,Ижевск,Удмуртская Республика,Россия,2016.02.21. Фото: Yana Rafikova

Russian superstars Artem Levin and Artem Vakitov who already qualified for the World Games stood there together with Russian Muaythai Federation President Dmitry Putilin, to welcome athletes. Artem Levin, the former chairman of the athletes’ commission, says this is where it all starts to earn your place to be part of the official Russian national team getting the Olympic colours if you represent your country and yourself. Only there you truly can enter the recognised games like World Combat Games, World Games, FISU World Championships, the European Championships and World Championships; all of them are in reach.

Тайский бокс Кубок России и Всероссийские соревнования,Ижевск,Удмуртская Республика,Россия,2016.02.21. Фото: Yana Rafikova

Dmitry Putilin stated that this event is for the athletes. It’s their time to shine and in the end there can be only one winner in one division but for many making it to the official finals fully sanctioned by the Russian Ministry of Sport and Russian Olympic Committee is already a dream come true.

Тайский бокс Кубок России и Всероссийские соревнования,Ижевск,Удмуртская Республика,Россия,2016.02.21. Фото: Yana Rafikova

Congratulations to the winners. We will see you in Sweden. For runners get ready next year and never stop following you dream!

Тайский бокс Кубок России и Всероссийские соревнования,Ижевск,Удмуртская Республика,Россия,2016.02.21. Фото: Yana Rafikova