The message of greetings reads, in part:
“For the first time Russia is hosting this prestigious international competition that is unique both in terms of its scale and its inspirational and creative power. We take special responsibility in organising and hosting these Games, and we strive to make every participant feel comfortable in Khanty-Mansiysk and Magnitogorsk, perform well and achieve the goals set.”
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For the first time Russia will host the XVIII Winter Deaflympics, a sports competition for people with hearing disabilities that is being held since 1949, in Khanty-Mansiysk and Magnitogorsk from March 28 will April 5, 2015.
The Soviet athletes first took part in this event in 1971, and from 1995, Russia’s national team has been participating in the Deaflympics.
The XVIII Winter Deaflympics will feature competitions in 5 events with 31 sets of medals to win. Ice hockey, curling, cross-country skiing and snowboard competitions will take place in Khanty-Mansiysk, while Magnitogorsk will host downhill skiing competition.