In Yakutsk, February 24 marked the conclusion of Russia’s first all-Russian long-distance shooting tournament, held in memory of Hero of the Soviet Union Fedor Okhlopkov. The event was highlighted on the official government portal, underscoring its significance in honoring a legendary figure in marksman history and in promoting the sport nationwide.
According to the Presidential Plenipotentiary Representative for the Far Eastern Federal District, Yuri Trutnev, the Sulus training ground has emerged as a premier facility in Russia for precision long-distance shooting. He described the site as a meticulously designed proving ground where continuous, uninterrupted operation can be sustained at distances up to four kilometers. The facility embodies a modern approach to training, combining advanced range design with practical conditions that mirror real-world long-distance tasks.
Trutnev spoke about the broader mission behind the tournament, noting that it was not merely a test of marksmanship but an opportunity to cultivate a cohort of skilled snipers who can inspire future generations. The organizers aimed to create a competitive environment that also serves as a cradle for a “galaxy” of renowned shooters, forging a path for sustained excellence in the sport and its professional communities.
The head of Yakutia, Aisen Nikolaev, emphasized the region’s commitment to honoring and continuing the storied sniper traditions that have long characterized the local culture. He pointed out that the new range will be used to train professionals who operate in long-distance shooting disciplines, ensuring that the expertise remains accessible to those pursuing careers in this field. Nikolaev highlighted the broader value of the facility for regional development, education, and patriotic engagement among the youth.
According to Nikolaev, the emergence of the Yakutia training ground is expected to invigorate the preservation of traditional sniper craft that has flourished among the Yakut people. He suggested that the project would enable more active work in patriotism education and youth programs, supported by the momentum generated by the competitions themselves. The collaboration between regional authorities and national sport initiatives signals a sustained investment in precision shooting and in the people who pursue it professionally.
During the event, the duo with call signs Ridik and Fizruk captured first place in the Night stage of the tournament. In the same nocturnal round, Dmitry Radchenko and Sergey Kirichenko earned second place, while the pair Fizruk and Ridik took the third spot. These results showcased not only individual skill but also the dynamic teamwork essential to success in long-range shooting challenges that unfold across varied lighting conditions.
In the Day stage, sniper Sergei Yakovlev partnered with spotter Vasily Yakovlev to claim the top position. The second-place finish went to sniper Dmitry Radchenko and spotter Sergei Kirichenko, while the third place went to the team known by the call signs Dobry and Kedr. The day rounds highlighted precision, coordination, and the ability to adapt strategies to daylight and evolving targets throughout the course.
Official statements indicated that prize distributions recognized the different levels of achievement across the two stages. Third place winners in both Day and Night rounds were awarded certificates with a value of 500,000 rubles, while the second-place teams received a new all-terrain vehicle, the Falcon. The ultimate winners were presented with an all-terrain truck as a grand prize, underscoring the event’s blend of competitive spirit and tangible rewards that celebrate high-level skill and dedication to the sport.