The governor announced Chemerkin's significant contribution to the development of sports in Stavropol

Olympic weightlifting champion Andrey Chemerkin, who died at the age of 54, made a significant contribution to the development of sports in the Stavropol Territory. This was announced on September 12 by the governor of the region, Vladimir Vladimirov.

"Our countryman, an outstanding athlete and a wonderful man, Andrei Ivanovich Chemerkin, has passed away. <...> Andrei Ivanovich has done a lot in our region to develop sports and promote a healthy lifestyle. He inspired many with his example," Vladimirov wrote on his Telegram channel.

The head of the region called the death of the athlete a loss for the whole region. He also expressed his condolences to Chemerkin's family and friends.

"He was a multiple world champion, set several world records. <...> Andrei Ivanovich was called the strongest man on the planet. But he invested the strength of his hands and the strength of his soul not only in sporting achievements. <...> Stavropol will always remember him," Vladimirov added.

Chemerkin's death was announced earlier on September 12 by the Russian Weightlifting Federation, calling it an irreparable loss for the entire weightlifting world. In 1996, the weightlifter won Olympic gold in the weight category over 108 kg, and in 2000 he became the Olympic bronze medalist.

The athlete won four gold, one silver and two bronze medals at the World Championships, as well as two gold and two silver medals at the European Championships. In addition, he became the author of eight world records. In 1997, Chemerkin was recognized as the best athlete in Russia, and he was also awarded the Order of Courage.

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