Those who attended “Para-fest”, as the event is known, had the chance to compete in powerlifting, boccia, arm wrestling and checkers.

The festival was officially opened by Pavel Rozhkov, Chef de Mission for Russia at next year's Paralympic Games in Rio de Janeiro, team coach and vice-president of the Russian Paralympic Committee (RPC).

Speaking at the Opening Ceremony, RPC President Vladimir Lukin said: “I am very pleased that each year the number of Para-fest participants increases noticeably.

“Of course this is a clear indication that sport among people with disabilities is becoming increasing popular.

“I am sure that participation in Para-fest will give all involved a lot of new emotions and unforgettable impressions, and it will be held in an atmosphere of friendly communication and fair play.”

Paralympic House was unveiled as the RPC’s first dedicated headquarters in December, rounding off a landmark year for Russian Para-sport having staged the 2014 Paralympic Winter Games in Sochi.

Russia made its Summer Paralympics debut at Atlanta in 1996, finishing 16th overall with a total of 27 medals, including nine golds.

By London 2012, the nation had risen to second behind China with a total of 102 medals, 36 of them gold.

Russia's first Paralympic Winter Games appearance came at Lillehammer 1994, finishing fifth with 30 medals, including ten golds. 

Competing on home soil in Sochi last year brought about the country's best performance, topping the medal standings with 30 golds, 28 silvers and 22 bronzes.


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