What Do The Winter Olympics Mean To Russia?

[Apologies.MC 50]

I've been bothered since the winter Olympics in Sochi, Russia started by this question: Just how... BIG is the winter Olympics for the Russian people? Is it revitalizing the country? I'm just getting the feeling that these games are a lot more than games to these people. My parents just shrugged when I asked about the winter games in Salt Lake City, Utah that happened back in 2002. It was just "closer than it usually is I guess." But I get a feeling of just... more. I feel like it means MORE to the Russians than it did to us. I want to hear your thoughts on this and if you're Russian then I DEFINITELY want to hear your thoughts!

[Scootalove 10,689]

What the Winter Olympics mean to Russia is, they have the honor to host one of the most anticipated Winter events where all countries get to showcase their skills in sporting events. It must mean a lot.

Edited February 8, 2014 by Scootalove

[ghostfacekiller39 23,860]

Another reason to drink vodka

[Twilight Mist 54]

How the hell one of the most intolerant nations in the world got the Olympics is beyond me?

[Metemponychosis 1,261]

Political smoke screen to the government.

Entertainment to the people.

Chance to prove yourself to the athletes. (if it was a World Cup, it'd be a chance for brazilian soccer players to get noticed by european clubs)

Money to the committees.

 

It's not about a country. It's about groups.

[Abstract 832]

How the hell one of the most intolerant nations in the world got the Olympics is beyond me?

Russia may not be at the forefront of tolerance and open-mindedness, but they're certainly a number of levels above MANY other countries.

[Apologies.MC 50]

I personally think it's a lift-up. Brighten some grey spirits, might be wrong though.

[sippie 16]

Another reason to drink vodka

 

 

Vodka drinks you in Russia gfk

[Apologies.MC 50]

Can someone PLEASE forward a Russian to this? I want serious opinions, not Americans making jokes... even if they are funny XD

[Judgement 445]

Well... There is a Russian girl in my broadcast class. (she was born in America i think, but her parents are from russia) Every class period, when I come in, she is constantly looking up and getting caught up on the sochi olympics. I overheard her talking to her friend sitting next to her. Her friend said "You sure do like the olympics." and she responded "Of course! It is my mother country."

 

And that is all I heard. It seems like the Russians are just very proud that they are hosting it. They are serious, and at winter events especially.

[Tigerpop198 696]

Well it would be a big deal for any country, not just Russia. Cheering for your home country, and also the increase in tourism that it would bring.