The All-Russian tournament in commemoration of Vladimir Pushnitsa, a renowned sambo athlete, unfolded in Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky on November 9th. This competition wasn’t just about records; it witnessed a momentous announcement by Svetlana Galyant, an eight-time sambo world champion. This distinguished athlete from Kamchatka declared her retirement from professional sports.
Galyant expressed her intention to dedicate her time to her position in the Legislative Assembly of Kamchatka Krai, while nurturing the next generation of athletes through coaching.
Vladimir Ilyukhin, the Governor of Kamchatka Krai, lauded Galyant’s accomplishments. “Svetlana, your contributions to Kamchatka and its youth are invaluable,” he said. “A bright future awaits you. And it’s tied to Kamchatka. Thank you for your unwavering commitment. You have decided to stay and share your knowledge with our young athletes.”
A Celebration of Talent
The tournament, held at the Zvezdny sports complex, attracted 70 athletes from across the Far East, including Zabaykalsky Krai, the Republic of North Ossetia-Alania, and St. Petersburg.
Kamchatka’s sambo athletes excelled, claiming four gold, two silver, and seven bronze medals. Ilya Kharitonov, Abdullokh Rakhimzhanov, Timur Torshkoyev, and Anton Mashukov emerged as the region’s top performers. The competition also saw victories for Andrey Kononenko and Albert Weizel from Khabarovsk Krai, Aleksandr Melnikov and Mikhail Kartinov from Primorsky Krai, and Andrey Yegorov from St. Petersburg.
Special recognition was given to Anton Mashukov, who was named the best athlete in the 90 kg weight category, a class once dominated by Vladimir Pushnitsa. Farukhzhan Mamatkulov was lauded for his unwavering determination, and Timur Torshkoyev was awarded for his exceptional technique.
A Legacy of Inspiration
Aleksandr Pushnitsa, a dedicated supporter of the sport, expressed his heartfelt sentiment. “This tournament is always a special occasion for athletes and spectators,” he said. “My brother’s memory is honored, and the tournament continues to thrive. It’s vital for us, sambo athletes, for your city, and for Kamchatka Krai as a whole. I believe Kamchatka will produce many more world champions. Even though Svetlana Galyant has retired from professional sports, the legacy she leaves behind will ensure a bright future for sambo in Kamchatka.
The tournament concluded with seminars conducted by Sergey Lopovok, a highly acclaimed sambo athlete, and Boris Sova, an internationally recognized referee. These seminars provided valuable insights for Kamchatka’s coaches, athletes, and referees.
The All-Russian tournament in commemoration of Vladimir Pushnitsa was a testament to the enduring spirit of sambo. It not only showcased the remarkable talent of athletes but also served as a platform for mentorship and the development of future generations.
