Nikolai Zakharov from Zainsk won the "Chelny Cup" in roller skiing.

      News of an impressive victory is reverberating through the sports community of Zainsk and Naberezhnye Chelny.

      Nikolai Zakharov, a 67-year-old sports veteran from Zainsk, has become the owner of the main trophy of the race series — the "Chelny Cup" in roller skiing. By his example he clearly demonstrates that willpower and dedication to a healthy lifestyle work real wonders, putting age in the background.

      A familiar athlete to all: skis and roller skiing as a way of life

      The ski trails in the forested area of the New City in Naberezhnye Chelny are always crowded. But one athlete here is known by absolutely everyone. That is Nikolai Zakharov. In winter he skis confidently, and in summer he is regularly seen on the same course on roller skis or out for a run. His inexhaustible energy and sporting longevity inspire genuine admiration among colleagues and younger athletes. Recently Nikolai Klementyevich returned triumphant from Naberezhnye Chelny, where he achieved a convincing victory in a series of roller-ski races. Over the course of the competitive season he climbed to the top step of the podium five times in his age category. This impressive result was honored with the main award — the organizers ceremoniously presented him with the "Chelny Cup."

      Secrets of success and athletic conditioning

      Nikolai Zakharov’s sporting character began to form in childhood, when he was passionate about wrestling and kettlebell lifting. This fundamental conditioning and the habit of always staying in shape have stayed with him all his life. "When they laid new asphalt near the village of Nalim, I immediately started training on that route. There is a long climb there, which is very important for developing strong endurance. I want to note that in our area there are all the conditions for sports — the main thing is to have the desire," the veteran shares. To avoid parting with his beloved skis even in summer, eight years ago Nikolai took up roller skiing. This type of training is an integral part of professional athletes’ preparation, allowing them to maintain their form in the snowless period.

      Teamwork and a tip from the veteran

      Nikolai Zakharov trains not alone but with a strong team of well-known athletes such as Sergey Adelev and Mikhail Komendantov, learning their invaluable experience. With their help he chooses quality equipment and constantly hones his technique. To young athletes from Zainsk and all fans of ski racing, Nikolai Zakharov gives an important piece of advice: start your winter preparation with roller skiing. "It’s the ideal base for winter skiing: you’ll work on balance and stability. Besides, summer training requires greater focus — asphalt, unlike snow, does not forgive mistakes. But remember that success on the course is half dependent on properly chosen roller skis and the right gear," the veteran shares his secrets.

      Nikolai Zakharov is a vivid role model not only for the youth of Zainsk but for everyone who thinks age can be an obstacle. He not only sets personal records but serves as living proof of a simple truth: if there is an irresistible desire and a love of sport, nothing can stand in the way of reaching the highest goal.

      Photo by Roza Ilaltdinova

      More news about the event:

      Nikolai Zakharov from Zainsk won the "Chelny Cup" in roller skiing

      The sports community of Zainsk and Naberezhnye Chelny is buzzing with news of an impressive victory. 16:41 21.10.2025 News of Zainsk - Zainsk

      Nikolai Zakharov from Zainsk won the "Chelny Cup" in roller skiing

      The sports community of Zainsk and Naberezhnye Chelny is buzzing with news of an impressive victory. 16:40 21.10.2025 Zainsk-Inform - Zainsk