The Prime Minister of Kazakhstan Olzhas Bektenov presented letters of thanks on behalf of the Head of State to the winners and medalists of the IV Winter Youth Olympic Games, which were held from January 19 to February 1 in Gangwondo (Republic of Korea).

Head of the Government read out the letter of thanks of the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev and congratulated the athletes on the achieved results. He noted that the won gold is the first for Kazakhstan in the history of the Winter Olympic Games among youth. In general, the republic took 20th place among 78 countries in the overall medal standings. 

"Sport is an important factor in raising the prestige of the country, strengthening people's faith in the strength and growing potential of the state. Kazakhstanis are proud of your victories. I am sincerely convinced that behind such purposeful young athletes like you - the future of our country. Mentors and coaches who supported you on your way deserve special thanks. Today's success is a serious bid for future Olympic achievements," Olzhas Bektenov said. 

The winner of the IV Winter Youth Olympic Games in ski jumping Ilya Mizernykh and coach Kairat Biekenov received letters of appreciation.

Also, noted bronze medalists in ice hockey: Arseny Kuchkovsky, Nikita Kulakov, Temirlan Aiboluly, Matvey Reshetko, Rasul Tursynov, Zhakhanger Tleukhan, Tair Bigarinov, Yegor Kravchenko, Roman Michurov, Adilkhan Sattar, Anuar Akhmetzhanov and coach Ramazan Kaidarov. 

The winner of the past games Ilya Mizernykh expressed gratitude on behalf of all athletes and noted that at the training camp they fulfilled the tasks set by coaches with full dedication.

"The gold medal is not my personal award, it is the result of the work of the whole team and coaching staff. It was very pleasant to receive congratulations from the President of our country Kassym-Jomart Tokayev. He wished me and other Kazakhstani athletes new victories and achievements. Such attention is a great motivation for us. Though we were far from home, we felt great support - this is our common victory! Alga Kazakhstan!" he said.

#Olzhas Bektenov #The Prime Minister of the Republic of Kazakhstan #Sports