Nikolay Zimyatov facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Nikolay Zimyatov |
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Nikolay Zimyatov in 2008
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| Country |  Russia |
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| Born | 28 June 1955 Moscow, Russian SFSR, Soviet Union |
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| World Cup career | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Seasons | 5 – (1982–1985, 1988) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Individual wins | 2 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Team wins | 0 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Indiv. podiums | 2 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Team podiums | 1 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Indiv. starts | 17 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Team starts | 2 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Overall titles | 0 – (6th in 1984) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Medal record
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Nikolay Semyonovich Zimyatov (Russian: Николай Семёнович Зимятов), born on June 28, 1955, is a famous cross-country skier from the Soviet era and Russia. He made history by becoming the first man in cross-country skiing to win three gold medals at a single Winter Olympics. This amazing feat happened at the 1980 Lake Placid Games.
At those games, he won gold in the 30-kilometer race, the 50-kilometer race, and as part of the 4 x 10-kilometer relay team. In the 50-kilometer race, he finished an incredible two and a half minutes ahead of the second-place skier! He also won another gold medal in the 30-kilometer event at the 1984 Winter Olympics in Sarajevo. For his achievements, he received the Order of Friendship of Peoples, a special award.
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Nikolay Zimyatov: An Olympic Skiing Champion
Nikolay Zimyatov is known for his incredible success in cross-country skiing. He competed for the Soviet Union and became one of the sport's biggest stars. His powerful skiing style helped him achieve many victories.
Early Success and World Championships
Before his Olympic triumphs, Nikolay Zimyatov was already a strong competitor. At the 1978 World Championships, he earned a silver medal in the 30-kilometer race. He also won several national titles in the Soviet Union. In 1978, he was the Soviet champion in the 30-kilometer race and the 4 x 10-kilometer relay. The next year, in 1979, he won the 15-kilometer and 30-kilometer races.
Making History at the 1980 Lake Placid Olympics
The 1980 Winter Olympics in Lake Placid, USA, were a highlight of Nikolay Zimyatov's career. He showed incredible skill and endurance. Winning three gold medals in one Olympics was a truly special achievement. It proved he was one of the best cross-country skiers in the world. His dominant win in the 50-kilometer race, finishing so far ahead, was particularly memorable.
More Olympic Glory in 1984
Nikolay Zimyatov continued his success at the 1984 Winter Olympics in Sarajevo. He once again won the gold medal in the 30-kilometer race. He also helped his team win a silver medal in the 4 x 10-kilometer relay. This showed his consistent performance at the highest level of the sport.
Medals and Key Achievements
Nikolay Zimyatov collected a total of five Olympic medals during his career.
- 1980 Lake Placid Olympics:
* Gold in 30 km * Gold in 50 km * Gold in 4 x 10 km relay
- 1984 Sarajevo Olympics:
* Gold in 30 km * Silver in 4 x 10 km relay
He also earned one silver medal at the World Championships.
- 1978 Lahti World Championships:
* Silver in 30 km
Life After Competing
After he stopped competing, Nikolay Zimyatov continued to be involved in cross-country skiing. He became a coach and worked with the Russian team for many years. He even helped prepare the Russian team for the 2002 Olympics. In 1980, he married Lyubov Sykova, who was also an international skier.
See also
In Spanish: Nikolái Zimiatov para niños
