London Olympic medallist Vasily Mosin becomes honorary guest at Kazan 2013 volunteers' MEGA party

The surprise of the evening was meeting Vasily Mosin – Kazan 2013 Ambassador, Merited Master of Sport of Russia, renowned Russian sports shooter, London Olympic Games bronze medallist. Vasily Mosin welcomed the Kazan 2013 volunteers, congratulated them on the successful completion of work at the test competitions and on the forthcoming important mission. The athlete noted that he has first-hand information about what volunteering involved – his elder daughter will be among the Kazan 2013 volunteers as well.

During the Kazan 2013 volunteers' party, kick start was given to the information part of the project called 'Games for Health. Games for Life' aimed at reducing the risk of the spread of HIV in the run-up and during the Summer Universiade 2013 and at promoting tolerant attitude to people with HIV. The project was launched by the charity non-commercial organisation Novy Vek with the support of the Kazan 2013 Executive Directorate and the regional office of the Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS). Liliya Taisheva, who is Director of the charity non-commercial organisation Novy Vek, presented a sports community guidebook titled 'Together Against HIV and AIDS'. Among the distinguished athletes and public figures who are quoted in the guidebook are Olympic medallist Vasily Mosin as well as holders of the Volunteer of the Year 2011 and the Volunteer of the Year 2012 Awards.

The party concluded with a general photo featuring all volunteers with the distinguished guest, followed by an autograph session during which Vasily Mosin signed more than 150 cards for the Kazan 2013 volunteers, with personal wishes to each of them.

Kazan 2013 volunteers are currently in the last stage of their preparation for the Games: this week, delegations from Russian regions and abroad are arriving in Kazan, final training is underway, most of the guys have gone through the accreditation procedure, received their gear and are ready to start their first shifts. As of 1 July, the MEGA Family Shopping Centre will have parties for Kazan 2013 volunteers every day – the MEGA parties will continue at the Games time as well, as part of the motivation programme. Interesting meetings, success stories, exciting creativity, fun and presents for the best team of the best ever Summer Universiade 2013!