By Tom Degun

Biathlon and Ski Complex in SochiMarch 25 - The "Laura" Biathlon and Ski Complex in Sochi, which will host the biathlon and the cross-country skiing competitions at the 2014 Winter Paralympic Games, has received excellent feedback from top officials after staging its test event.


The test event for the venue was the International Paralympic Committee (IPC) Nordic Skiing World Cup Finals and it saw over 140 athletes from 16 countries compete.

Sochi 2014 President and chief executive Dmitry Chernyshenko hailed the organisation of the event as he underlined the importance of preparing as thoroughly as possible for the Paralympic Games.

"Paralympic sport has its own specific requirements," said Chernyshenko.

"This means enhanced accessibility, service and professionalism of volunteers.

"We are paying particular attention to how we are preparing for Paralympic competitions.

"Our objective at the test events is to expose and take into consideration the nuances that may affect the performance of athletes so that all necessary conditions are created for them to achieve top results at the Games."

IPC Nordic Skiing technical delegate Len Apedaile also praised the competition, despite tough weather conditions at the start of competition.

"It has been a great week here in Sochi," he said.

"We had a difficult start with the weather, but all the competitions went very smoothly and it's been a very good test for us ahead of the Games.

"The venues are great and it's a beautiful location with incredible views and the stadium and tracks are fantastic.

"Overall we're very happy."

The Sochi 2014 Paralympic Games are due to take place from March 7 until 16 with 700 athletes from 45 countries set to compete in the five sports of alpine skiing, biathlon, cross-country skiing, ice sledge hockey and wheelchair curling.

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