Paralympic athletes have received the keys to their new gifted flats in a residential complex built on the site of demolished dilapidated housing.
According to the press service of the Akmola region administration, two 45-apartment blocks were constructed as part of the region’s housing stock renovation program.
«This is not just about comfortable apartments, but a token of appreciation from the Akmola region for their valor, commitment to their goals and devotion to the homeland,» said Marat Akhmetzhanov, the region’s governor.
Two-time Paralympic champion powerlifter David Degtyarev and silver medalist of last year’s Paralympics sport shooter Yerkin Gabbasov are the proud owners of the new dwellings.
«The apartment is spacious and cozy. The state aid provided for athletes is becoming more tangible, which is motivating. Now I am training extensively for a licensed world championship that offers a chance to qualify for the next Paralympic Games,» said Degtyarev.
Another happy resident, Yerkin Gabbasov, shared that he is preparing for the World Championship and the Asian Para Games.
David Degtyarev, a Kazakhstani Para powerlifter, is the first athlete in the country to win twice at the Paralympics. He earned his first medal in Tokyo in 2020 and the second in Paris in 2024, lifting 188 kilograms in his best attempt.
In April, Kazakhstan banned state support for foreign athletes, including funds from quasi-public sector entities, redirecting spending solely toward high-performance sports, state-owned sports organizations, mass sports participation and the development of sports infrastructure.
Another Central Asian country also made a gesture of generosity. Earlier this month, Uzbekistan gifted cars to members of its national football team for securing a spot in the World Cup.
