Wednesday, April 23, 2008
Strong Foundations Laid for Sochi 2014
The International Olympic Committee (IOC) Coordination Commission for the Sochi 2014 Olympic Winter Games concluded its first full visit (22-23 April 2008) to the Russian host city today. The Commission, led by IOC member Jean-Claude Killy, took advantage of the visit to review first-hand the sites of the venues for the 2014 Games, and heard updates from the Sochi 2014 Organising Committee (Sochi 2014) on a number of key areas of Games preparations, such as the Organising Committee’s structure, transport, marketing, environment and construction.
Speaking at the end of the visit, Chairman Killy said, “The Sochi 2014 project is an ambitious and exceptional one, which will leave a tremendous legacy to the Krasnodar region and its people, and to sport in Russia. Such a venture, however, cannot be completed successfully unless there is complete unity behind it, and the Commission was delighted to see that Sochi 2014 continues to have the support of all levels of Russian society. Indeed, the presence of Prime Minister Zubkov, Speaker of the Duma Gryzlov, Deputy Prime Minister Zhukov and a number of other high ranking Russian government ministers during our meetings underlined the importance that Russia places on these Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games.
Killy continued: “This week has also allowed us to cement our own relationship with the Sochi organisation, and we have laid very solid foundations, which will allow us to move forward together as one team. The presentations made to us by Sochi 2014 were of an extremely high quality and this fills us with confidence that the project is in good hands. I have no doubt that these Games have the capacity to be truly spectacular and we will work hard with our Russian friends to ensure that the winter sport athletes of the world compete in top-quality conditions in 2014.”
In addition to meetings with the Sochi team, a large part of this first Coordination Commission visit was devoted to site visits, which allowed the Commission to see first- hand the development and positioning of the venues for 2014. The Commission toured the Olympic sites in the city of Sochi and visited the Krasnaya Polyana cluster, which will host the snow and sliding sports in 2014.
Speaking about the sites, Gilbert Felli, IOC Executive Director for the Olympic Games, said: “The Sochi venues will be some of the most spectacular winter sports arenas in the world, ranging from magnificent mountain sites to stadiums on the water’s edge. However, a lot of construction work must be completed by 2014 in order to ensure that the athletes, media and spectators find top-quality venues and infrastructure when they come to the Games here in Sochi. The Commission is therefore happy to see that work on preparing the venues has started early and that the resources of the State are being put behind this project. There is still a long way to go, but the Sochi team must ensure that its focus in this area does not waver and that they keep to the schedule presented to us. The Russian people have shown in the past that they are capable of great things, and we have every confidence that they will once again rise to the challenge for these first-ever Russian Olympic Winter Games.”
Dmitry Chernyshenko, President of the Sochi 2014 Organising Committee, said:
“On behalf of Sochi 2014 and millions of Russians inspired by the Olympic Movement, I thank the members of the IOC Coordination Commission for making available to us their unprecedented blend of knowledge and experience. By building on the strong working relationships established during the Commission's first ever visit to Sochi, together we can deliver the most innovative Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games in history, creating an enduring legacy for the benefit of the Olympic Movement and the people of Russia.”
“We have an ambitious, but realistic, plan and have been able to show the Commission our strong early progress, particularly in the mountains. But we are far from complacent. We have a lot of work to do and will make best use of every hour of each day to ensure that we deliver on time and within budget. What is especially important to highlight is the government's continued involvement in, and full support of, Sochi 2014. Thanks to its ongoing support, the IOC Coordination Commission heard from a number of very high- calibre presenters, who have all given strong presentations over these last two days.”
Speaking at the end of the visit, Chairman Killy said, “The Sochi 2014 project is an ambitious and exceptional one, which will leave a tremendous legacy to the Krasnodar region and its people, and to sport in Russia. Such a venture, however, cannot be completed successfully unless there is complete unity behind it, and the Commission was delighted to see that Sochi 2014 continues to have the support of all levels of Russian society. Indeed, the presence of Prime Minister Zubkov, Speaker of the Duma Gryzlov, Deputy Prime Minister Zhukov and a number of other high ranking Russian government ministers during our meetings underlined the importance that Russia places on these Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games.
Killy continued: “This week has also allowed us to cement our own relationship with the Sochi organisation, and we have laid very solid foundations, which will allow us to move forward together as one team. The presentations made to us by Sochi 2014 were of an extremely high quality and this fills us with confidence that the project is in good hands. I have no doubt that these Games have the capacity to be truly spectacular and we will work hard with our Russian friends to ensure that the winter sport athletes of the world compete in top-quality conditions in 2014.”
In addition to meetings with the Sochi team, a large part of this first Coordination Commission visit was devoted to site visits, which allowed the Commission to see first- hand the development and positioning of the venues for 2014. The Commission toured the Olympic sites in the city of Sochi and visited the Krasnaya Polyana cluster, which will host the snow and sliding sports in 2014.
Speaking about the sites, Gilbert Felli, IOC Executive Director for the Olympic Games, said: “The Sochi venues will be some of the most spectacular winter sports arenas in the world, ranging from magnificent mountain sites to stadiums on the water’s edge. However, a lot of construction work must be completed by 2014 in order to ensure that the athletes, media and spectators find top-quality venues and infrastructure when they come to the Games here in Sochi. The Commission is therefore happy to see that work on preparing the venues has started early and that the resources of the State are being put behind this project. There is still a long way to go, but the Sochi team must ensure that its focus in this area does not waver and that they keep to the schedule presented to us. The Russian people have shown in the past that they are capable of great things, and we have every confidence that they will once again rise to the challenge for these first-ever Russian Olympic Winter Games.”
Dmitry Chernyshenko, President of the Sochi 2014 Organising Committee, said:
“On behalf of Sochi 2014 and millions of Russians inspired by the Olympic Movement, I thank the members of the IOC Coordination Commission for making available to us their unprecedented blend of knowledge and experience. By building on the strong working relationships established during the Commission's first ever visit to Sochi, together we can deliver the most innovative Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games in history, creating an enduring legacy for the benefit of the Olympic Movement and the people of Russia.”
“We have an ambitious, but realistic, plan and have been able to show the Commission our strong early progress, particularly in the mountains. But we are far from complacent. We have a lot of work to do and will make best use of every hour of each day to ensure that we deliver on time and within budget. What is especially important to highlight is the government's continued involvement in, and full support of, Sochi 2014. Thanks to its ongoing support, the IOC Coordination Commission heard from a number of very high- calibre presenters, who have all given strong presentations over these last two days.”
Tuesday, April 22, 2008
IOC Coordination Commission Arrives in Sochi for First Official Visit
A 14-strong team of Olympic experts from the International Olympic Committee (IOC) Coordination Commission last evening landed at Sochi International Airport for the first official IOC visit to the city that will host Russia's first ever Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games in February 2014.
The delegation was met by senior members from Sochi 2014, including the President of the Sochi 2014 Organising Committee Dmitry Chernyshenko.
The Sochi International Airport is one of several infrastructure development projects the IOC Coordination Commission will receive an update on during their stay on the Black Sea coast. The airport currently receives direct flights from cities such as Vienna, Istanbul and Dubai, with other routes expected to launch in the lead up to the 2014 Winter Games.
The Commission's meeting officially started on Tuesday, April 22, and concludes on Wednesday, April 23. Commission members are to hold a series of meetings on all aspects of hosting the Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games with Sochi 2014 Organising Committee members and Olympic stakeholders in Russia.
A tour of the two proposed coastal and mountain venue clusters in Sochi 2014's incredibly compact Winter Games plan will take the Commission from the heart of Sochi to the snow-covered Krasnaya Polyana mountains less than 40 minutes away.
On Wednesday, April 23, IOC Coordination Commission Chairman, Jean-Claude Killy, and IOC Executive Director, Gilbert Felli, will host an official press-conference to provide an update on their assessment of Sochi 2014's early progress.
Dmitry Chernyshenko, President of the Sochi 2014 Organising Committee, said:
"My team is looking forward to working closely with the 14 members of the IOC Coordination Commission, who will provide exceptional and varied knowledge to Sochi 2014 in our efforts to host an inspirational and innovative Winter Games in less than six years time and deliver an enduring legacy for Russia and the Olympic Movement."
The 14 members of the IOC Coordination Commission are:
Chairman
Jean-Claude Killy (FRA)
Members (in alphabetical order)
* Rémy Charmetant(FRA)
* Ottavio Cinquanta (ITA)
* Philippe Drevon (FRA)
* René Fasel (SUI)
* Gian-Franco Kasper (SUI)
* Gunilla Lindberg (SWE)
* HRH The Prince of Orange (NED)
* Miguel Sagarra (ESP) (IPC representative)
* Juan Antonio Samaranch Jr (ESP)
* Rebecca Scott (CAN)
* Tsunekazu Takeda (JPN)
* Cesare Vaciago (ITA)
Executive Director for the Commission
Gilbert FELLI (SUI) IOC Olympic Games Executive Director
The delegation was met by senior members from Sochi 2014, including the President of the Sochi 2014 Organising Committee Dmitry Chernyshenko.
The Sochi International Airport is one of several infrastructure development projects the IOC Coordination Commission will receive an update on during their stay on the Black Sea coast. The airport currently receives direct flights from cities such as Vienna, Istanbul and Dubai, with other routes expected to launch in the lead up to the 2014 Winter Games.
The Commission's meeting officially started on Tuesday, April 22, and concludes on Wednesday, April 23. Commission members are to hold a series of meetings on all aspects of hosting the Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games with Sochi 2014 Organising Committee members and Olympic stakeholders in Russia.
A tour of the two proposed coastal and mountain venue clusters in Sochi 2014's incredibly compact Winter Games plan will take the Commission from the heart of Sochi to the snow-covered Krasnaya Polyana mountains less than 40 minutes away.
On Wednesday, April 23, IOC Coordination Commission Chairman, Jean-Claude Killy, and IOC Executive Director, Gilbert Felli, will host an official press-conference to provide an update on their assessment of Sochi 2014's early progress.
Dmitry Chernyshenko, President of the Sochi 2014 Organising Committee, said:
"My team is looking forward to working closely with the 14 members of the IOC Coordination Commission, who will provide exceptional and varied knowledge to Sochi 2014 in our efforts to host an inspirational and innovative Winter Games in less than six years time and deliver an enduring legacy for Russia and the Olympic Movement."
The 14 members of the IOC Coordination Commission are:
Chairman
Jean-Claude Killy (FRA)
Members (in alphabetical order)
* Rémy Charmetant(FRA)
* Ottavio Cinquanta (ITA)
* Philippe Drevon (FRA)
* René Fasel (SUI)
* Gian-Franco Kasper (SUI)
* Gunilla Lindberg (SWE)
* HRH The Prince of Orange (NED)
* Miguel Sagarra (ESP) (IPC representative)
* Juan Antonio Samaranch Jr (ESP)
* Rebecca Scott (CAN)
* Tsunekazu Takeda (JPN)
* Cesare Vaciago (ITA)
Executive Director for the Commission
Gilbert FELLI (SUI) IOC Olympic Games Executive Director
Monday, April 21, 2008
Olympic Brand Protection Campaign Redefines Standards in Russia
The Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games in Sochi in 2014 is already having a major impact on Russian society as the Sochi 2014 Organising Committee and Russian authorities today began the first ever mass intellectual property protection campaign to safeguard the Olympic brand in Russia.
In a campaign believed to be unique in Russia, brand protection measures for Sochi 2014 will set a benchmark for public and private organisations to follow and are aimed at driving understanding and respect for intellectual property rights in the country.
Under Olympic Law , the Sochi 2014 Organising Committee and all related stakeholders have an obligation to the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and its sponsors to protect the Olympic intellectual property that make up one of the most successful and instantly recognisable brands in the world. The campaign will see Sochi 2014 engage in extensive dialogue with the public to promote understanding and respect for the rights of the Olympic and Paralympic brands. A new outdoor advertising campaign has been launched in Sochi, with thousands of posters aimed at drawing attention towards the problem of counterfeit products using Olympic symbols.
Today, a free phone line has also been launched to respond to all queries related to brand protection, such as the use of Olympic and Paralympic symbols; the rights of Sochi 2014, the IOC and the International Paralympic Committee (IPC); and the values of the Olympic and Paralympic brands. The Sochi 2014 Organising Committee will also use the phone line to gather feedback on how the brand protection campaign is enhancing public understanding.
Dmitry Chernyshenko, President of the Sochi 2014 Organising Committee, said:
"Hosting the Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games in 2014 brings responsibility to all Russians, who are now custodians of one of the world's greatest brands. Understandably many organisations want to be associated with the success and power of the Olympic brand. But as at least 75% of funding will come from commercial revenues, such as sponsorship and licensing, Sochi 2014 will rely intensely on the successful enforcement of intellectual property rights. So it is essential that everyone understands and respects the need to protect the integrity of the Olympic and Paralympic brands.
We are proud that by helping to drive respect for intellectual property rights, Sochi 2014 is already the catalyst for tangible, positive change in Russia, as these legal and moral principles are common to all brands. I am excited by the impact Sochi 2014 is already beginning to have on Russian society and we still have nearly six years to ensure the Games will leave an enduring legacy for our people and the Olympic Movement."
Sochi 2014 brand protection is vital for the funding, reputation and prestige of the Olympic and Paralympic Games. Special agreements on preventing, revealing and terminating illegal and unauthorised use of Olympic and Paralympic marks in Russia have been signed earlier this year with the Ministry of Internal Affairs and the Federal Service for Oversight of Consumer Protection Rights and Welfare.
The overall brand protection programme was approved by the Presidium of the Presidential Council for the Development of Physical Culture and Sport, Excellence in Sports and the Preparation and Execution of the 2014 XXII Olympic Winter Games and XI Paralympic Winter Games in Sochi on 4 February 2008. This followed the adoption of the Olympic and Paralympic Law in Russia, passed by the State Duma and Federal Council in November 2007, which provides the necessary legal basis to protect the Olympic and Paralympic brands, including symbols.
In a campaign believed to be unique in Russia, brand protection measures for Sochi 2014 will set a benchmark for public and private organisations to follow and are aimed at driving understanding and respect for intellectual property rights in the country.
Under Olympic Law , the Sochi 2014 Organising Committee and all related stakeholders have an obligation to the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and its sponsors to protect the Olympic intellectual property that make up one of the most successful and instantly recognisable brands in the world. The campaign will see Sochi 2014 engage in extensive dialogue with the public to promote understanding and respect for the rights of the Olympic and Paralympic brands. A new outdoor advertising campaign has been launched in Sochi, with thousands of posters aimed at drawing attention towards the problem of counterfeit products using Olympic symbols.
Today, a free phone line has also been launched to respond to all queries related to brand protection, such as the use of Olympic and Paralympic symbols; the rights of Sochi 2014, the IOC and the International Paralympic Committee (IPC); and the values of the Olympic and Paralympic brands. The Sochi 2014 Organising Committee will also use the phone line to gather feedback on how the brand protection campaign is enhancing public understanding.
Dmitry Chernyshenko, President of the Sochi 2014 Organising Committee, said:
"Hosting the Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games in 2014 brings responsibility to all Russians, who are now custodians of one of the world's greatest brands. Understandably many organisations want to be associated with the success and power of the Olympic brand. But as at least 75% of funding will come from commercial revenues, such as sponsorship and licensing, Sochi 2014 will rely intensely on the successful enforcement of intellectual property rights. So it is essential that everyone understands and respects the need to protect the integrity of the Olympic and Paralympic brands.
We are proud that by helping to drive respect for intellectual property rights, Sochi 2014 is already the catalyst for tangible, positive change in Russia, as these legal and moral principles are common to all brands. I am excited by the impact Sochi 2014 is already beginning to have on Russian society and we still have nearly six years to ensure the Games will leave an enduring legacy for our people and the Olympic Movement."
Sochi 2014 brand protection is vital for the funding, reputation and prestige of the Olympic and Paralympic Games. Special agreements on preventing, revealing and terminating illegal and unauthorised use of Olympic and Paralympic marks in Russia have been signed earlier this year with the Ministry of Internal Affairs and the Federal Service for Oversight of Consumer Protection Rights and Welfare.
The overall brand protection programme was approved by the Presidium of the Presidential Council for the Development of Physical Culture and Sport, Excellence in Sports and the Preparation and Execution of the 2014 XXII Olympic Winter Games and XI Paralympic Winter Games in Sochi on 4 February 2008. This followed the adoption of the Olympic and Paralympic Law in Russia, passed by the State Duma and Federal Council in November 2007, which provides the necessary legal basis to protect the Olympic and Paralympic brands, including symbols.
Sochi 2014 Confident, On Track and Looking Forward to Arrival of IOC Experts in Russia
IOC Coordination Commission Will Bring Exceptional Insight to Sochi 2014 and Update Assertion of Sochi 2014's Positive Start to Games Preparations
The Sochi 2014 Organising Committee for Russia's first ever Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games is hard at work and confident about progress ahead of the first International Olympic Committee (IOC) Coordination Commission visit to the 2014 Host City, which starts on April 22. Dmitry Chernyshenko, President of the Sochi 2014 Organising Committee outlined that his team is looking forward to working closely with the 14 members of the Commission. The members will provide exceptional and diverse experience to Sochi 2014 in its efforts to host a truly once-in-a-lifetime Winter Games and deliver an enduring legacy for Russia and the Olympic Movement.
Dmitry Chernyshenko said:
"We are relishing the arrival of the IOC Coordination Commission for their first visit to my beautiful home city, Sochi. We look forward to updating the Commission members on our strong progress and learn from their inspiring mix of experience and knowledge, which will help us deliver the most innovative Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games in history.
Sochi 2014 is on schedule and within budget, with the Foundation Phase of construction for our mountain venues nearly complete. At least 27 construction projects will begin this year, with the remainder starting in 2009.”
The IOC Coordination Commission visit officially starts on Tuesday, April 22, and runs through to Wednesday, April 23. During this period, Commission members will meet with Sochi 2014 Organising Committee members and key stakeholders involved in preparing for the 2014 Winter Games and tour the proposed sites of the exceptionally compact coastal and mountain venue clusters.
On Wednesday 23 April, IOC Coordination Commission Chairman, Jean-Claude Killy and Executive Director of the IOC, Gilbert Felli, will host an official press conference to provide an update on what IOC President, Jacques Rogge, called "Sochi 2014's positive start to their Games preparations" in a statement on November 29, 2007.
The Sochi 2014 Organising Committee for Russia's first ever Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games is hard at work and confident about progress ahead of the first International Olympic Committee (IOC) Coordination Commission visit to the 2014 Host City, which starts on April 22. Dmitry Chernyshenko, President of the Sochi 2014 Organising Committee outlined that his team is looking forward to working closely with the 14 members of the Commission. The members will provide exceptional and diverse experience to Sochi 2014 in its efforts to host a truly once-in-a-lifetime Winter Games and deliver an enduring legacy for Russia and the Olympic Movement.
Dmitry Chernyshenko said:
"We are relishing the arrival of the IOC Coordination Commission for their first visit to my beautiful home city, Sochi. We look forward to updating the Commission members on our strong progress and learn from their inspiring mix of experience and knowledge, which will help us deliver the most innovative Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games in history.
Sochi 2014 is on schedule and within budget, with the Foundation Phase of construction for our mountain venues nearly complete. At least 27 construction projects will begin this year, with the remainder starting in 2009.”
The IOC Coordination Commission visit officially starts on Tuesday, April 22, and runs through to Wednesday, April 23. During this period, Commission members will meet with Sochi 2014 Organising Committee members and key stakeholders involved in preparing for the 2014 Winter Games and tour the proposed sites of the exceptionally compact coastal and mountain venue clusters.
On Wednesday 23 April, IOC Coordination Commission Chairman, Jean-Claude Killy and Executive Director of the IOC, Gilbert Felli, will host an official press conference to provide an update on what IOC President, Jacques Rogge, called "Sochi 2014's positive start to their Games preparations" in a statement on November 29, 2007.
Friday, April 18, 2008
Sochi 2014 to Benefit from State-of-the-Art Transport System
Transport routes around the Black Sea coastal city of Sochi, which will host Russia's first ever Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games in 2014, are set to benefit from the introduction of a state-of-the-art satellite-based navigation system.
Russia's version of the GPS - the Global Navigation Satellite System (GLONASS) - will help to monitor and regulate traffic flow on commuter routes, ensuring residents and visitors can move quickly and easily around Sochi.
The system is expected to be fully operational across Russia before 2010, but it is being introduced early on commuter buses in Sochi. As a two-way link to each bus, GLONASS will help traffic controllers establish a vehicle's location, its speed and fuel consumption. Should traffic problems occur, buses can be easily redirected.
GLONASS will mean that bus drivers will no longer need to use a microphone to name stations, as this will be done automatically by means of the satellite system. Virtual tours may become an option in a city that stretches for 147 kilometres along the Black Sea coastline. It is anticipated that the navigation system will use up to 24 satellites by 2010. It currently consists of 18 satellites and has been designed to provide navigation and positioning data covering the whole of the Russian Federation.
Dmitry Chernyshenko, President and CEO of the Sochi 2014 Organising Committee, said:
"Satellites monitoring and supporting the transport network around Sochi are just part of the innovation we will bring to the Winter Games in less than six years time. Sochi 2014 will be a truly state-of-the-art sports event and the comfort of international visitors and members of the Olympic Family is fundamental to our highly compact Games concept."
Russia's version of the GPS - the Global Navigation Satellite System (GLONASS) - will help to monitor and regulate traffic flow on commuter routes, ensuring residents and visitors can move quickly and easily around Sochi.
The system is expected to be fully operational across Russia before 2010, but it is being introduced early on commuter buses in Sochi. As a two-way link to each bus, GLONASS will help traffic controllers establish a vehicle's location, its speed and fuel consumption. Should traffic problems occur, buses can be easily redirected.
GLONASS will mean that bus drivers will no longer need to use a microphone to name stations, as this will be done automatically by means of the satellite system. Virtual tours may become an option in a city that stretches for 147 kilometres along the Black Sea coastline. It is anticipated that the navigation system will use up to 24 satellites by 2010. It currently consists of 18 satellites and has been designed to provide navigation and positioning data covering the whole of the Russian Federation.
Dmitry Chernyshenko, President and CEO of the Sochi 2014 Organising Committee, said:
"Satellites monitoring and supporting the transport network around Sochi are just part of the innovation we will bring to the Winter Games in less than six years time. Sochi 2014 will be a truly state-of-the-art sports event and the comfort of international visitors and members of the Olympic Family is fundamental to our highly compact Games concept."
Thursday, April 17, 2008
Sochi 2014 Reinforces Dialogue with Ecologists
Organising Committee of the 2014 Winter Games in Sochi Establishes Public Ecological Council to Deliver Green Games and Sustainable Legacy
Moscow, Russia, April 17th, 2008 - Sochi 2014, Russia's first ever Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games, has taken a major forward step in its mission to protect and enhance the environment around Sochi by hosting the first formal meeting of the Public Ecological Council under the Sochi 2014 Organising Committee.
On Wednesday, the Sochi 2014 Organising Committee and a series of senior environmental experts that make up the Council brought together bodies from respected NGOs such as Greenpeace Russia and the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) through to environmental agencies and academic experts for an inaugural meeting in Moscow.
The meeting furthered open dialogue with key environmental organisations to strive for best practice and ensure Sochi 2014 Winter Games will deliver a positive and enduring environmental legacy. Environmental guidelines and recommendations will be developed and further discussed as a part of the preparation and planning process to deliver a Winter Games that fully respects the environment.
Dmitry Chernyshenko, President of the Sochi 2014 Organising Committee, said:
“Environmental protection, but also enhancement, are key priorities for the Sochi 2014 Organising Committee. We are very keen to listen to informed views on environmental matters from a broad range of experts. The first meeting of the Public Ecological Council is the start of a long and vitally important dialogue that will help to ensure Sochi 2014 delivers a lasting green legacy for the people of Sochi and a benchmark for Russia and other Olympic Games.”
As the meeting proved successful, the Council will gather again in June. The final outcome of the dialogue process will be the development of a clear plan of action for the Sochi 2014 Organising Committee to deliver one of the most environmentally-sound Games in history, protecting and enhancing the unique environment around Sochi and the Krasnodar region.
Moscow, Russia, April 17th, 2008 - Sochi 2014, Russia's first ever Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games, has taken a major forward step in its mission to protect and enhance the environment around Sochi by hosting the first formal meeting of the Public Ecological Council under the Sochi 2014 Organising Committee.
On Wednesday, the Sochi 2014 Organising Committee and a series of senior environmental experts that make up the Council brought together bodies from respected NGOs such as Greenpeace Russia and the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) through to environmental agencies and academic experts for an inaugural meeting in Moscow.
The meeting furthered open dialogue with key environmental organisations to strive for best practice and ensure Sochi 2014 Winter Games will deliver a positive and enduring environmental legacy. Environmental guidelines and recommendations will be developed and further discussed as a part of the preparation and planning process to deliver a Winter Games that fully respects the environment.
Dmitry Chernyshenko, President of the Sochi 2014 Organising Committee, said:
“Environmental protection, but also enhancement, are key priorities for the Sochi 2014 Organising Committee. We are very keen to listen to informed views on environmental matters from a broad range of experts. The first meeting of the Public Ecological Council is the start of a long and vitally important dialogue that will help to ensure Sochi 2014 delivers a lasting green legacy for the people of Sochi and a benchmark for Russia and other Olympic Games.”
As the meeting proved successful, the Council will gather again in June. The final outcome of the dialogue process will be the development of a clear plan of action for the Sochi 2014 Organising Committee to deliver one of the most environmentally-sound Games in history, protecting and enhancing the unique environment around Sochi and the Krasnodar region.
Saturday, April 12, 2008
10 THINGS TO KNOW ABOUT SOCHI
1. Sochi is the largest resort region of the Russian Federation. It stretches for 147 km along the Black Sea coast of the Krasnodar region and includes the Krasnaya Polyana mountain resort area.
2. Sochi is divided into four administrative districts: Adler, Khosta, Central and Lazarevsky, and it borders the Georgian Republic in the south.
3. On the map, Sochi can be found on the same latitude with Toronto, Nice and the Gobi desert. As its charming landscapes and scenery are so reminiscent of the Mediterranean, Sochi is often referred to as the «Russian Riviera».
4. As Sochi is situated between the Caucasian Mountains and the Black Sea, it enjoys the most northern subtropical climate on earth. As a result, its Krasnaya Polyana mountains have great snow conditions and are largely protected from the wind. These unique conditions cannot be found anywhere else in Europe.
5. Mount Elbrus (5,642 m) in the Russian Caucasus is considered the highest mountain in Europe. Mont Blanc in comparison is 4,810 m. The average height of the Caucasus mountains around Sochi are 2,000m.
6. The climate in Sochi is subtropical and the city usually has 200 sunny days a year. The average summer temperature is +26° C and -3° C in the winter. You can swim in the sea from April until October, and go skiing from October through May.
7. There are no large industrial facilities in the Sochi area, so the air quality, especially in Sochi?s Krasnaya Polyana area, is considered among the very best in the world.
8. Sochi is a city with more then 400,000 inhabitants representing over 100 nationalities. Over Two million tourists visit Sochi annually and with over 250 spa facilities in the area, health and leisure tourism are the city?s leading sources of economy.
9. Sochi has over 200,000 hectares of forests, 4,000 of which are within Sochi Centre. Sochi encompasses several specially protected natural zones: the Caucasian National Biosphere Reserve, Sochi National Park, the Russian Federation National Wildlife Sanctuary, and over 30 botanical gardens and parks and nature sanctuaries housing over 30,000 wild-life plant species.
10. The Sochi tennis school became the launching pad for the careers of many Russian tennis stars, including Maria Sharapova and Yevgeny Kafelnikov.
2. Sochi is divided into four administrative districts: Adler, Khosta, Central and Lazarevsky, and it borders the Georgian Republic in the south.
3. On the map, Sochi can be found on the same latitude with Toronto, Nice and the Gobi desert. As its charming landscapes and scenery are so reminiscent of the Mediterranean, Sochi is often referred to as the «Russian Riviera».
4. As Sochi is situated between the Caucasian Mountains and the Black Sea, it enjoys the most northern subtropical climate on earth. As a result, its Krasnaya Polyana mountains have great snow conditions and are largely protected from the wind. These unique conditions cannot be found anywhere else in Europe.
5. Mount Elbrus (5,642 m) in the Russian Caucasus is considered the highest mountain in Europe. Mont Blanc in comparison is 4,810 m. The average height of the Caucasus mountains around Sochi are 2,000m.
6. The climate in Sochi is subtropical and the city usually has 200 sunny days a year. The average summer temperature is +26° C and -3° C in the winter. You can swim in the sea from April until October, and go skiing from October through May.
7. There are no large industrial facilities in the Sochi area, so the air quality, especially in Sochi?s Krasnaya Polyana area, is considered among the very best in the world.
8. Sochi is a city with more then 400,000 inhabitants representing over 100 nationalities. Over Two million tourists visit Sochi annually and with over 250 spa facilities in the area, health and leisure tourism are the city?s leading sources of economy.
9. Sochi has over 200,000 hectares of forests, 4,000 of which are within Sochi Centre. Sochi encompasses several specially protected natural zones: the Caucasian National Biosphere Reserve, Sochi National Park, the Russian Federation National Wildlife Sanctuary, and over 30 botanical gardens and parks and nature sanctuaries housing over 30,000 wild-life plant species.
10. The Sochi tennis school became the launching pad for the careers of many Russian tennis stars, including Maria Sharapova and Yevgeny Kafelnikov.
Wednesday, April 9, 2008
Beijing, China, 9 April 2008, photo 1 - Alexander Zhukov, Deputy Prime Minister of the Russian Federation
Beijing, China, 9 April 2008, photo 1 - Alexander Zhukov, Deputy Prime Minister of the Russian Federation
Sochi 2014 Ahead of Schedule and Within Budget; 2014 Winter Games Hosts Update World's Olympic Committees on Early Progress
Beijing, China, 9 April 2008 – Sochi 2014, Russia's first ever Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games, is ahead of schedule and within budget, the Deputy Prime Minister of the Russian Federation and Chairman of the Sochi 2014 Supervisory Board confirmed today. Zhukov confirmed that Sochi 2014 has made considerable progress since being appointed Host City, with all Games delivery infrastructure now in place.
Zhukov was speaking at the 16th General Assembly of the Association of National Olympic Committees (ANOC) in Beijing, China, alongside the Sochi 2014 President and CEO, Dmitry Chernyshenko. They were providing Sochi 2014's first official update to the Olympic Family since the International Olympic Committee (IOC) historically awarded the 2014 Winter Games to the Black Sea city of Sochi.
During the address, Chernyshenko reaffirmed to the National Olympic Committee chiefs that the 2014 Winter Games will be ready on time, with test events organised at least two years in advance. He also explained how the Sochi 2014 Games concept is unique in its simplicity; providing the entire Olympic Family with purpose-built 21st century facilities that form a unique and compact plan. Thirteen brand new winter sport venues will be built in two clusters, less than 40 minutes apart.
Dmitry Chernyshenko said:
"For the first time in Winter Games history, we are creating an Olympic Park that will contain the main Olympic Stadium, Medals Plaza, Olympic Village, main Media Centre, the Olympic Family Hotels, and all five ice competition venues. And only 40 minutes away, in Krasnaya Polyana, we have created a unique mountain venue cluster featuring some of the world’s most sophisticated and modern winter sports facilities."
Chernyshenko also outlined a series of commitments to the Olympic Family that Sochi 2014 had made during its Games bid:
"As we promised, the Olympic villages will comprise 4-star hotel accommodation with stunning views and comfortable living conditions for athletes. Moreover, we are carefully studying the experience of recent Organising Committees in order to better understand the needs of the Olympic Family. More importantly though, we will also be discussing with you how to ensure that your delegations can be accommodated to maximise your comfort and athletic performance."
The Assembly also heard that Sochi 2014 will be running an open and transparent procurement policy in accordance with IOC guidelines, as well as being compliant with international best practices.
"Sochi 2014 is looking to work with the finest and most innovative suppliers in the sports world on approximately 300 tender opportunities between now and the Games, with thousands of additional tenders beneath these. We want to see new ideas put into action, especially in the area of sustainability, environmental protection and information technology, and will strive for best practice in all cases," Chernyshenko said.
Progress outlined by Zhukov and Chernyshenko included:
* The Sochi 2014 Olympic Organising Committee was officially registered on 16 October 2007 - in accordance with the Olympic Charter, its founders are the Russian Olympic Committee, the City of Sochi and the Russian Federation
* The Olympic and Paralympic Law has taken effect in Russia
* IOC intellectual property including, but not limited to, the IOC symbols, emblems and designations, is now fully and strongly protected
* The Games delivery structure is now officially in place. It has three main components: the Presidential Council at the top; the Sochi 2014 Organising Committee; and the State Corporation 'Olympstroy' responsible for major infrastructure projects
* The process of Foundation Planning is well advanced to ensure all aspects of the Games are based on detailed plans
* A strong team of Russian and international experts capable of delivering these plans is being assembled
* An excellent working relationship with the IOC and IPC has been established
* An orientation seminar has been held with the IPC with the express purpose of ensuring all Paralympic requirements are integrated into plans at an early stage
* The Programme for Construction of the Olympic and Paralympic Venues and the Development of Sochi as a Year-Round Mountain Resort was approved in January 2008 - replacing the existing Federal Target Programme for the Development of Sochi
* The construction of venues has started: the Psekhako Ridge resort, which will host the Biathlon, Nordic Combined and Cross-Country alpine events is already complete and work on the Rosa Khutor and Carousel resorts is well underway, which will host the alpine Skiing and Snowboard disciplines in 2014
* The construction of all other sports venues and facilities will commence in 2008 and 2009, with a timeline for completion at least two years prior to the start of the 2014 Olympic Winter Games
* Designs for the majority of these venues are in the process of being finalised, to ensure they entirely reflect the needs of the Olympic Family
* Russia's Ministry of Natural Resources is working on a comprehensive strategy to enhance, not just protect the macro-environment in the region around Sochi, while forging strong working relationships with UNEP (United Nations Environment Programme) and UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization)
* Entry to the Russian Federation for the Olympic Family and members of any third party owned and/or controlled by the IOC is allowed on the basis of the Olympic identity card and accreditation for the Games. No visa is required
During ANOC (7-10 April), Sochi 2014 is meeting to discuss best practice with as many Olympic stakeholders as possible, to ensure Sochi 2014 fulfils its promise to be the Winter Games most attuned to the needs of the Olympic Family.
Zhukov was speaking at the 16th General Assembly of the Association of National Olympic Committees (ANOC) in Beijing, China, alongside the Sochi 2014 President and CEO, Dmitry Chernyshenko. They were providing Sochi 2014's first official update to the Olympic Family since the International Olympic Committee (IOC) historically awarded the 2014 Winter Games to the Black Sea city of Sochi.
During the address, Chernyshenko reaffirmed to the National Olympic Committee chiefs that the 2014 Winter Games will be ready on time, with test events organised at least two years in advance. He also explained how the Sochi 2014 Games concept is unique in its simplicity; providing the entire Olympic Family with purpose-built 21st century facilities that form a unique and compact plan. Thirteen brand new winter sport venues will be built in two clusters, less than 40 minutes apart.
Dmitry Chernyshenko said:
"For the first time in Winter Games history, we are creating an Olympic Park that will contain the main Olympic Stadium, Medals Plaza, Olympic Village, main Media Centre, the Olympic Family Hotels, and all five ice competition venues. And only 40 minutes away, in Krasnaya Polyana, we have created a unique mountain venue cluster featuring some of the world’s most sophisticated and modern winter sports facilities."
Chernyshenko also outlined a series of commitments to the Olympic Family that Sochi 2014 had made during its Games bid:
"As we promised, the Olympic villages will comprise 4-star hotel accommodation with stunning views and comfortable living conditions for athletes. Moreover, we are carefully studying the experience of recent Organising Committees in order to better understand the needs of the Olympic Family. More importantly though, we will also be discussing with you how to ensure that your delegations can be accommodated to maximise your comfort and athletic performance."
The Assembly also heard that Sochi 2014 will be running an open and transparent procurement policy in accordance with IOC guidelines, as well as being compliant with international best practices.
"Sochi 2014 is looking to work with the finest and most innovative suppliers in the sports world on approximately 300 tender opportunities between now and the Games, with thousands of additional tenders beneath these. We want to see new ideas put into action, especially in the area of sustainability, environmental protection and information technology, and will strive for best practice in all cases," Chernyshenko said.
Progress outlined by Zhukov and Chernyshenko included:
* The Sochi 2014 Olympic Organising Committee was officially registered on 16 October 2007 - in accordance with the Olympic Charter, its founders are the Russian Olympic Committee, the City of Sochi and the Russian Federation
* The Olympic and Paralympic Law has taken effect in Russia
* IOC intellectual property including, but not limited to, the IOC symbols, emblems and designations, is now fully and strongly protected
* The Games delivery structure is now officially in place. It has three main components: the Presidential Council at the top; the Sochi 2014 Organising Committee; and the State Corporation 'Olympstroy' responsible for major infrastructure projects
* The process of Foundation Planning is well advanced to ensure all aspects of the Games are based on detailed plans
* A strong team of Russian and international experts capable of delivering these plans is being assembled
* An excellent working relationship with the IOC and IPC has been established
* An orientation seminar has been held with the IPC with the express purpose of ensuring all Paralympic requirements are integrated into plans at an early stage
* The Programme for Construction of the Olympic and Paralympic Venues and the Development of Sochi as a Year-Round Mountain Resort was approved in January 2008 - replacing the existing Federal Target Programme for the Development of Sochi
* The construction of venues has started: the Psekhako Ridge resort, which will host the Biathlon, Nordic Combined and Cross-Country alpine events is already complete and work on the Rosa Khutor and Carousel resorts is well underway, which will host the alpine Skiing and Snowboard disciplines in 2014
* The construction of all other sports venues and facilities will commence in 2008 and 2009, with a timeline for completion at least two years prior to the start of the 2014 Olympic Winter Games
* Designs for the majority of these venues are in the process of being finalised, to ensure they entirely reflect the needs of the Olympic Family
* Russia's Ministry of Natural Resources is working on a comprehensive strategy to enhance, not just protect the macro-environment in the region around Sochi, while forging strong working relationships with UNEP (United Nations Environment Programme) and UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization)
* Entry to the Russian Federation for the Olympic Family and members of any third party owned and/or controlled by the IOC is allowed on the basis of the Olympic identity card and accreditation for the Games. No visa is required
During ANOC (7-10 April), Sochi 2014 is meeting to discuss best practice with as many Olympic stakeholders as possible, to ensure Sochi 2014 fulfils its promise to be the Winter Games most attuned to the needs of the Olympic Family.
Tuesday, April 8, 2008
Sochi 2014 Arrives at ANOC in Beijing to Provide Winter Games Progress Report and Outline Timeline for Delivery
Beijing, China, 8 April 2008 – The Deputy Prime Minister of the Russian Federation and Chairman of the Sochi 2014 Organising Committee, Alexander Zhukov, and the President and CEO of Sochi 2014, Dmitry Chernyshenko, today arrived in Beijing, China, ahead of an important first address to the 205 National Olympic Committees at the 16th ANOC General Assembly (7-10 April 2008).
Zhukov and Chernyshenko will use their speech on Wednesday to provide the National Olympic Committees (NOCs) with an initial report on Sochi 2014's progress since the International Olympic Committee (IOC) historically awarded the city of Sochi the right to host its first ever Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games (4 July 2007). Sochi 2014 will also use the platform to present a timeline for the delivery of the Winter Games in less than six years time.
During ANOC, Sochi 2014 will meet to discuss best practice with as many Olympic stakeholders as possible, to ensure Sochi 2014 fulfils its promise to be the Winter Games most attuned to the needs of the Olympic Family.
Dmitry Chernyshenko said:
"It is an honour to be given the opportunity to address such an important group within the Olympic Movement at their own General Assembly. I look forward to providing the 205 National Olympic Committees with an update on Sochi 2014's progress. We will also seek their vital insight to help us achieve our goal of hosting a once-in-a-lifetime Winter Games that leaves behind an incredible sporting, social, economic and environmental legacy for future generations in Russia and around the world."
Zhukov and Chernyshenko will use their speech on Wednesday to provide the National Olympic Committees (NOCs) with an initial report on Sochi 2014's progress since the International Olympic Committee (IOC) historically awarded the city of Sochi the right to host its first ever Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games (4 July 2007). Sochi 2014 will also use the platform to present a timeline for the delivery of the Winter Games in less than six years time.
During ANOC, Sochi 2014 will meet to discuss best practice with as many Olympic stakeholders as possible, to ensure Sochi 2014 fulfils its promise to be the Winter Games most attuned to the needs of the Olympic Family.
Dmitry Chernyshenko said:
"It is an honour to be given the opportunity to address such an important group within the Olympic Movement at their own General Assembly. I look forward to providing the 205 National Olympic Committees with an update on Sochi 2014's progress. We will also seek their vital insight to help us achieve our goal of hosting a once-in-a-lifetime Winter Games that leaves behind an incredible sporting, social, economic and environmental legacy for future generations in Russia and around the world."
Saturday, April 5, 2008
Olympic Torch Arrives in Russia
St. Petersburg, April 5 2008 - Dmitry Chernyshenko, President and CEO of Sochi 2014, will today carry the Beijing 2008 Olympic Flame through St Petersburg following its arrival in Russia yesterday morning.
Following the official lighting ceremony at 10am local time, Mr Chernyshenko will join eighty other officially designated Russian torch bearers, including athletes, politicians and public figures, for the Relay. Each bearer will carry the torch 250 metres on its twenty kilometre tour of the city between Victory Square and Palace Square.
Dmitry Chernyshenko said:
“It is a great honour for our nation to welcome the Olympic Torch, and Russia's passion for sports and the Olympic Movement makes this a particularly proud day for us. The Olympic Flame symbolically connects us to the values of the Olympic Movement and will serve to inspire the people of Russia who are already looking forward to welcoming the world to Sochi in 2014".
Large crowds are expected to line the route for the Relay, which takes place less than six years before Russia hosts its first ever Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games. Having arrived from Istanbul, Turkey, the Torch will move on to London following the St Petersburg leg, which has been organised jointly by the Beijing 2008 Organising Committee for the Olympic Games, the Russian Olympic Committee, and the St Petersburg Committee of Physical Culture and Sport.
The Beijing 2008 Torch relay will be carried a total of 130,000 km over 130 days, stopping in sixteen world cities. The Journey will end in Beijing on 8 August 2008, prior to the opening ceremony of the Olympic Games.
Following the official lighting ceremony at 10am local time, Mr Chernyshenko will join eighty other officially designated Russian torch bearers, including athletes, politicians and public figures, for the Relay. Each bearer will carry the torch 250 metres on its twenty kilometre tour of the city between Victory Square and Palace Square.
Dmitry Chernyshenko said:
“It is a great honour for our nation to welcome the Olympic Torch, and Russia's passion for sports and the Olympic Movement makes this a particularly proud day for us. The Olympic Flame symbolically connects us to the values of the Olympic Movement and will serve to inspire the people of Russia who are already looking forward to welcoming the world to Sochi in 2014".
Large crowds are expected to line the route for the Relay, which takes place less than six years before Russia hosts its first ever Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games. Having arrived from Istanbul, Turkey, the Torch will move on to London following the St Petersburg leg, which has been organised jointly by the Beijing 2008 Organising Committee for the Olympic Games, the Russian Olympic Committee, and the St Petersburg Committee of Physical Culture and Sport.
The Beijing 2008 Torch relay will be carried a total of 130,000 km over 130 days, stopping in sixteen world cities. The Journey will end in Beijing on 8 August 2008, prior to the opening ceremony of the Olympic Games.
Thursday, April 3, 2008
Sochi 2014 Olympic and Paralympic Games
International Olympic Committee has designated Sochi as the host city of the 2014 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games. Thanks to this decision, Russia will host its first ever Winter Games.
During its two-year campaign, the Sochi 2014 Bid Committee has demonstrated its commitment and passion, outlining its visionary plans for the Games thus successfully convincing the IOC that Russia was the best partner to offer a once-in-a-lifetime Olympic and Paralympic Games.
The Russian people's enthusiasm for Winter Sports and the Olympics in particular, the true passion displayed for Sochi 2014 during the course of the Bid campaign reflected to the world the commitment of an entire nation to honour the Olympic values and guarantee an incredible ambiance in 2014.
Thank you for making Russia's Olympic dream come true!
Welcome to Sochi 2014 – Our Gateway to the Future.
Set in a spectacular location, on the coast of the Black Sea and at the foot of the Caucasus Mountains in southern Russia, Sochi is vying for the opportunity to invite the world to a once-in-a-lifetime celebration of winter sport at the 2014 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games. The Sochi 2014 Winter Games will serve as a gateway to the future for Russia, opening unprecedented opportunities for the development of winter sport, reinvigorating the entire Sochi region and bringing to life the spirit of Olympism for millions of Russian citizens.
The historic legacy of the Sochi 2014 Games cannot be overstated. Coupled with the Russian Government’s programme for the redevelopment of the region that is already under way, the Games will create a world-class resort destination where millions of winter sport enthusiasts from around the world will have the opportunity to enjoy brand-new, affordable facilities built for the sport of the 21st Century.
Looking for travel tour in Sochi? Click for offers.
For the 1st time ever, Russian elite athletes will be able to hone their skills at a world-class alpine training and competition complex, taking winter sport in Russia to new heights.
Never before have the long-term plans for the development of a region aligned so perfectly with the long-term needs of the Olympic Movement.
Behind our vision for the Sochi 2014 Olympic Winter Games is the overwhelming support of the Russian nation and the Russian Government, which has given absolute guarantees to the IOC to deliver on every promise of Sochi 2014.
Travel Sochi Travel tour to Sochi. Hot offers.
Sochi 2014 and the entire nation are committed to bringing the visionary and realistic plan for the 2014 Olympic Winter Games to life and delivering a once-in-a-lifetime Games to the Olympic Movement. Choise great ecotour instantly.
Tuesday, April 1, 2008
Sochi 2014 Launches Procurement Process as the Head of Sochi 2014 Calls for Games Partners to Deliver Best in Class Services
Manchester, UK, 1 April, 2008 The President and CEO of Sochi 2014, Dmitry Chernyshenko, today formally launched a rigorous procurement process that will feature hundreds of tender opportunities for best in class services from Russian and international companies to help Russia deliver one of the most innovative Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games ever.
Addressing members of the Olympic Family and international sports industry at the UK Trade & Investment ’Winning Beyond 2012’ conference in Manchester, Chernyshenko confirmed that the Sochi 2014 Organising Committee is looking to work with the finest and most innovative suppliers in the sports world, particularly in the areas of sustainability, environmental protection and information technology. He also outlined what potential suppliers needed to do to stand the best chance of success through the transparent Sochi 2014 tender process.
Chernyshenko said:
«The Sochi 2014 Organising Committee has developed a clear procurement process, with a rigorous system in place to ensure a fair opportunity for the best suppliers. While price has to be a factor, we are determined to ensure that, wherever possible, all our suppliers will be ‘best in class?. In fact, I will be stretching my team to constantly redefine ‘best in class? so that in partnership, we will create an innovative Games that can inspire the world for generations to come.
«We want all our suppliers to be part of the Sochi 2014 brand, not just servicing it. Potential partners should make an effort to understand fully our vision and strategic plan when they are revealed in the next few months. We are open to working with international suppliers, balanced with our mission to leave a human legacy of new skills and standards of professionalism in Russia.»
Addressing members of the Olympic Family and international sports industry at the UK Trade & Investment ’Winning Beyond 2012’ conference in Manchester, Chernyshenko confirmed that the Sochi 2014 Organising Committee is looking to work with the finest and most innovative suppliers in the sports world, particularly in the areas of sustainability, environmental protection and information technology. He also outlined what potential suppliers needed to do to stand the best chance of success through the transparent Sochi 2014 tender process.
Chernyshenko said:
«The Sochi 2014 Organising Committee has developed a clear procurement process, with a rigorous system in place to ensure a fair opportunity for the best suppliers. While price has to be a factor, we are determined to ensure that, wherever possible, all our suppliers will be ‘best in class?. In fact, I will be stretching my team to constantly redefine ‘best in class? so that in partnership, we will create an innovative Games that can inspire the world for generations to come.
«We want all our suppliers to be part of the Sochi 2014 brand, not just servicing it. Potential partners should make an effort to understand fully our vision and strategic plan when they are revealed in the next few months. We are open to working with international suppliers, balanced with our mission to leave a human legacy of new skills and standards of professionalism in Russia.»
Sochi 2014 Celebrates new International Air Links as First Austrian Airlines Flight Touches Down
Sochi 2014 today celebrates the latest milestone in its drive to link the city to Europe and beyond, as it welcomes the inaugural Austrian Airlines flight from Vienna to the region.
Austrian Airlines flight OS 615 lands at Sochi airport at 3.10pm local time. On board will be Grigory Minaev, Head of the Department of Transport for the Krasnodar region, Rudolf Mertl, Austrian Airlines Vice President, Wolfgang Grimus, Austrian Airlines Director of Eastern Europe, and Kurt Reimann, the Austrian Airlines General Manager for Russia.
Once on the ground, the airline representatives will hold seminars with over thirty Sochi-based tourism agencies to discuss services for travellers to the unique Black Sea location. The airline will operate three return flights per week from Vienna to Sochi, which will also link the venue for Russia's first ever Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games to major world cities including Milan, Venice, Amsterdam, Rome, Barcelona, London, Paris, New York, Chicago and Washington DC.
President and CEO of Sochi 2014 Dmitry Chernyshenko said:
"Sochi 2014 pledged at the outset of its bid to host the Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games that the city and region would be turned into a world centre for Winter Sports. Today's flight demonstrates that the city and organisers are continuing to deliver on this promise, and we look forward to welcoming more and more visitors from across the world in the coming years".
Christine Svatos, Austrian Airlines Sochi General Manager said:
"We are delighted to be providing regular flights to Sochi and linking this unique location to the heart of Europe. Austrian Airlines is looking forward to being a part of Sochi's exciting future and today's flight marks an important first step in what we are sure will be a successful partnership".
Austrian Airlines flight OS 615 lands at Sochi airport at 3.10pm local time. On board will be Grigory Minaev, Head of the Department of Transport for the Krasnodar region, Rudolf Mertl, Austrian Airlines Vice President, Wolfgang Grimus, Austrian Airlines Director of Eastern Europe, and Kurt Reimann, the Austrian Airlines General Manager for Russia.
Once on the ground, the airline representatives will hold seminars with over thirty Sochi-based tourism agencies to discuss services for travellers to the unique Black Sea location. The airline will operate three return flights per week from Vienna to Sochi, which will also link the venue for Russia's first ever Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games to major world cities including Milan, Venice, Amsterdam, Rome, Barcelona, London, Paris, New York, Chicago and Washington DC.
President and CEO of Sochi 2014 Dmitry Chernyshenko said:
"Sochi 2014 pledged at the outset of its bid to host the Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games that the city and region would be turned into a world centre for Winter Sports. Today's flight demonstrates that the city and organisers are continuing to deliver on this promise, and we look forward to welcoming more and more visitors from across the world in the coming years".
Christine Svatos, Austrian Airlines Sochi General Manager said:
"We are delighted to be providing regular flights to Sochi and linking this unique location to the heart of Europe. Austrian Airlines is looking forward to being a part of Sochi's exciting future and today's flight marks an important first step in what we are sure will be a successful partnership".
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