Yuri Bachurov, a 91-year-old bronze medalist from the 1960 Olympics, remains active and engaged, sharing his experiences as a rower, scientist, coach, and participant in the legendary “engineering four” that brought the USSR a bronze medal. He continues to work with children, imparting his knowledge and passion for sports.

Bachurov recalls meeting prominent figures such as Princess Margaret and Pope, as well as Soviet leaders Khrushchev and Korolev. Despite a devastating fire that destroyed his home and awards, Bachurov’s spirit remains unbroken.

Bachurov maintains his physical fitness through a personal system of exercises and walking with ski poles. He credits his recovery from a COVID-related leg issue to his continued work with children. For 25 years, he has been training young children in general physical fitness, developing a unique program of warm-ups, stretching, strength exercises, and outdoor games.

The training sessions at the stadium attract a crowd, filled with cheers and encouragement. Bachurov emphasizes the importance of recognizing every participant, providing them with unique diplomas. He believes in the value of prizes as lasting reminders of athletic achievement and personal growth.

The fire that destroyed Bachurov’s home revealed the strength of human character and the importance of community support. Despite losing everything, he was overwhelmed by the outpouring of help from friends, acquaintances, and even strangers.

Bachurov expresses disappointment in those who made promises of support but failed to deliver, contrasting their inaction with the genuine kindness of ordinary people. Among the items lost in the fire were his Orders and medals, including his Olympic bronze medal and two gold medals from the Royal Regatta in England presented by Princess Margaret.

Bachurov also shared stories from his past, including his childhood during World War II. He reminisced about his time at the Arsenal plant, where he balanced his work as a workshop head with his doctoral studies. He also voiced concerns about the current state of sports, criticizing the influence of money and the lack of dedication among some athletes.

Looking back at the 1960 Olympic Games, Bachurov acknowledged the challenges he faced. His first international start was in England, where his team experienced a setback when their paddle broke during a race. However, this setback fueled their determination, and they went on to achieve significant success.