Rural Games – 2025: Sport, Memory and Unity in Orsha

In Orsha, the regional Spartakiad among rural residents "Rural Games – 2025" has started, dedicated to the 80th anniversary of the Victory of the Soviet people in the Great Patriotic War. This large-scale event brought together athletes, villagers, and honored guests to not only demonstrate strength, agility, and team spirit but also to pay tribute to the heroes who fought for the peaceful sky above.

The head of the Department of Sports and Tourism of the Vitebsk Regional Executive Committee, Denis Igorevich Fateev, addressed the participants with a welcoming speech: The Spartakiad "Rural Games" is not just competitions, but an important event that unites generations. Sports have always been a symbol of resilience and courage, and today, in the year of the 80th anniversary of the Great Victory, it takes on a special meaning. I wish all participants fair competition, bright victories, and, of course, health!"

The director of the state institution "Vitebsk Regional Educational and Methodological Center for Physical Education of the Population", Vadim Felixovich Arzhanovich, awarded the winners of the regional tournament in shooting with pneumatic weapons among workers of physical culture, sports, and tourism, dedicated to the 80th anniversary of the Victory in the Great Patriotic War, which took place on May 20 at the base of the Vitebsk State College of Olympic Reserve, emphasizing the importance of such competitions for preserving traditions and strengthening the sporting spirit.

As part of the event, a memorial meeting was held at the mass grave of Soviet soldiers, where 196 Soviet soldiers who died in battles during the liberation of Orsha from fascist invaders are buried. Participants and organizers honored the memory of the fallen heroes with a moment of silence and laid flowers.

"Today we are not just opening a sports holiday – we are continuing the traditions of strength, health, and unity laid down by our ancestors!" – emphasized the organizers.

"Rural Games" are part of a larger effort to develop mass sports in the countryside, promote a healthy lifestyle, and strengthen the patriotic spirit!"