Sport In Their Soul-Why Russia Won't Quit

Michael Rondou

San Jose Mercury News

Times could hardly seem more grim in Russia following the attempted coup and the breakup of the Soviet Union. Shortages of all kinds impact daily life in Moscow. Lines several hours long are commonplace. But the people rely on sports to keep them going. Sports, like ballet and caviar, are interwoven into the Russian character. 'I am sure of one thing,' says Valery Kudryavtzev, editor-in-chief of Sovietsky Sports in Moscow. 'Sports is one of the main values of life. Modern man can't do without sport. He needs it for health, maintaining his life and to express himself.' Children are put through their paces in the pool, even in sub-zero cold. Those who show promise are separated and given special attention.

Michael Rondou, "Sport In Their Soul-Why Russia Won't Quit," in POYi Archive, Item #21300, http://archive.poy.org/items/show/21300 (accessed November 24, 2024).