Mascot Zhorik Is the Special Attraction in Chelyabinsk 2014 World Judo Championship

The Brazilian National Team landed at six o'clock on Chelyabinsk Airport and they has a warm welcome from both volunteers and the Zhorik Tiger, the event's mascot. When asking him to have a photo taken to record such euphoria on a rainy and cold day, the animal did a pose with his hand on waist. He is also the streets' attraction for tourists and locals. Zhorik was also the mascot of the European Championship in 2012 hosted in Chelyabinsk.

 Zhorik is a true touching story  of the region. Before the European 2012, the residents of Chelyabinsk rescued the tiger which was on the brink of death. A famous local veterinarian, Karen Dallakyan, ran a difficult snout surgery to save the animal. The population joined and donated money to buy the tiger from his former owners. The campaign was so successful that he found a shelter in the rehabilitation center for disabled predators and he even won a she-mate. According to the organizers of the World Judo Championship, the mascot was kept due to the symbol of kindness and generosity that is Zhorik's story.

* Based on the article written by Raphael Andriolo on Globoesporte.com. The original article can be accessed on http://globoesporte.globo.com/judo/noticia/2014/08/do-aeroporto-ao-centro-chelyabinsk-se-enfeita-toda-para-o-mundial-de-judo.html