WDSC 2016: Ukrainian shooter earns his third medal at tournament

Day 3 of the first World Deaf Shooting Championships wrapped up with the men’s 50m pistol event. The tournament take splace at the Dynamo Sports Complex in Mirny Township.

Oleksandr KOLODII (UKR) took gold in the men’s 50m pistol final, scoring 179.7. It’s his third medal at the inaugural world deaf shooting tournament in Kazan. KOLODII has the full set of medals now: gold, silver and bronze. Roman KUZMIN (RUS) placed second with 176.2. It’s also his third trophy at the Kazan tournament. Boris GRAMNJAK (CRO) ended up in third place (155.7).

After the final, Kolodii shared his feelings of winning gold: “First I was third, then I was second, now I’m first. Yes, the competition was tough enough but I’m happy that I managed to win; this was achieved though hard training and well-coordinated work of the entire team. I represent my country, all shooters, all hearing impaired people of Ukraine; it’s a huge responsibility.”

When asked about his journey from bronze to gold at the Kazan tournament, the Ukrainian shooter said: “It was a step-by-step progress towards success; I knew and I believed that I could win. I’m pleased with myself; it’s really a success, my first victory and I hope that it won’t be the last one. Of course, I’m looking forward to the Summer Deaflympic Games in Turkey; I will do my best to show good results there as well.”

When asked about the level of tournament management in Kazan, the champion said: “I liked it very much here; everything is great both in terms of event management and hospitality: I have only a positive impression of Tatarstan. The shooting range is great; the venue is quite interesting. The weather was good today; it was much easier to perform. Of course, if I have the opportunity, I will definitely come here again.”

Silver medallist, Roman Kuzmin, admitted that today’s medal was reward for his efforts and hard work. “I strained every sinew during training sessions and was scrupulous about the competitions – it was an expected result,” he stated. At the same time the athlete is confident that there’s still room for improvement. “It’s always good to lay the groundwork for future victories. It’s important to have a goal and to be steady in purpose – this is my recipe for success,” the Russian shooter said.

“I succeeded to win a medal thanks to the fact that I stayed focused and strong and kept my mind sharp. Not all of my shots were successful but I’m happy that in the end I climbed the podium spot again. I represent the entire nation and it’s our common work, of coaches, doctors, of the entire Russian national team,” Kuzmin summed up.

Bronze medallist, Boris Gramnjak, revealed that upon conclusion of competitions today all athletes are invited to take a tour of the city’s tourist attractions. “We plan to visit the centre, to do some sights: Kazan Kremlin, Old Tatar Settlement. The event management was perfect. I have no complaints,” he said.

Speaking of his performance, the Croatian athlete admitted: “Of course, gold or silver are better and more prestigious, but up until now I’ve never shown such a good result. It’s the first time that I end up among the top three finishers so I’m pleased with myself. I’m very happy that today our team managed to win two medals. We all have been training hard for a long time so the medals are well-earned,” he concluded.