Almaty’s legendary Medeu Ice Skating Rink (Medeu) may regain
its international status and former glory by 2027. A large-scale reconstruction
is planned for the highest of the open-air stadiums in operation, with work set
to begin this year. The modernization will enable the arena to host
international winter sports competitions. Half a century ago, Boris Yaglinsky
supervised the construction of this monument of urban development and
architecture. According to him, more than 200 world records were set at Medeu.
«The first season of the ice rink with artificial ice was in
1973. Of the 375 best seasonal results recorded worldwide, 249 were set at
Medeu, while only 126 were achieved at all other skating rinks combined,» said former
chief engineer of the Medeu project Boris Yaglinsky.
The country intends to obtain a special status for Medeu
from the International Skating Union (ISU), which will make the rink
competitive on the world stage. The renovated complex could also serve as a
venue for international bandy tournaments, ice speedway, and spectacular
performances by world figure skating stars.
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