Rival Olympians embrace despite conflict

NINO SALUKVADZE of Georgia embraced her Russian rival and made a moving appeal for peace after winning an Olympic bronze medal in shooting yesterday.

Salukvadze, who competed only after the 35-member Georgian team were told by their president to remain at the Games in the “best interest of the country” despite Russian military attacks on its territory, finished behind Russia’s Natalia Paderina.

“If the world were to draw any lessons from what I did, there would never be any wars,” Salukvadze said.

The two rival shooters — once teammates in the Soviet Union — hugged and kissed each other on the cheeks after the dramatic final in the Beijing shooting range hall, where China’s Guo Wenjung won the gold medal.

“We live in the 21st Century, after all,” said Salukvadze, who wiped tears from her eyes when she put her pistol down after her final shot and the crowd applauded. “We shouldn’t really stoop so low as to wage wars against each other.”

Salukvadze was asked about her moving post-match handshake and embrace with Paderina, who had led Guo going into the finals but appeared to be rattled when the crowd of 2,000 did not applaud her introduction before the finals.

“As far as the hugging and kissing goes, I do that with many friends. I have many friends around the world and will always do that. There should be no hatred among athletes and people,” she said. “Politicians should straighten out the situation today and, if they don’t, we’ll have to get involved.” added Salukvadze.