The President said, in particular, in his message:
“The banner of Paralympic sport brings together people with courage, determination and strength of spirit. We are truly proud of and admire our athletes, who have not only achieved outstanding victories but have paved the way forward for others, offering hope and helping people to believe in themselves and rise above the challenges of life.
Let me note too that this year’s award ceremony is taking place in the Russian Paralympic Committee’s newly renovated building. The fact that Moscow now has a modern and multifunctional centre of this sort is very important and I am sure that it will be an excellent venue for sports training and competitions and will also become a real home for athletes and numerous guests.”
The Russian Paralympic Committee’s Return to Life prize is being awarded to athletes and trainers who represented Russia in major sports competitions in 2014.