Athletes, officials laud Sochi Games conditions - Mutko
MOSCOW. Feb 17 (Interfax) - Athletes and foreign officials laud the conditions created for the 22nd Sochi Winter Olympic Games, Russian Sport Minister Vitaly Mutko said.
"Both the athletes and the officials give the most enthusiastic reviews. Everyone - I emphasize this - everyone likes Sochi very much. They especially praise the conditions creates for Olympic athletes. Sport tracks, the Olympic Village, catering and transportation are top-notch. Everything satisfies everyone. We have been hearing nothing but expressions of gratitude so far," Mutko said in an interview published by Rossiyskaya Gazeta on Monday.
He also noted the quality of broadcasting of sport events. It is now possible to see world leaders in little known events, such as skeleton, bobsleigh, freestyle and luge, Mutko added.
"I am confident there will be an influx [of athletes] into new, young events after the Games. Both of children and adults. It is our task for today and the after-Sochi tomorrow to use this keen interest in sport. And we should do so rapidly: open sport centers in the country's regions," Mutko continued.
He also noted the "fantastic" support from viewers. The well-wishing attitude is enjoyed by all athletes, without any exceptions, the minister said.
"Ten days have passed. We are in the middle of the road. The national team is performing wonderfully. We already have one gold more than we had in the entire period of the Vancouver Games. I do not feel ashamed of this team. The guys are demonstrating remarkable dedication, huge enthusiasm," Mutko emphasized.
