Russian President Dmitry Medvedev met Russian...

This is a first time Paralympic athletes will be awarded in the Kremlin in this way. On previous occasions, the president met medalists but did not present them with awards.

"The Olympics left us with mixed feelings," Medvedev said. "Here [at the Paralympics,] the emotions were the same for everyone. You have all done very well."

The president said that the fact that Russian athletes had begun to prepare for the Paralympic Games in advance and had been on top form played a big part in their success.

"You have shown great willpower and courage. It should be an example for everyone who participates in competitions," the president added.

The Russian Paralympic team topped the Vancouver overall standings with 38 medals and came second in the gold medal count after Germany. It performed better than the Russian Olympic team, which finished the Games with its worst Winter Olympic medal tally in history, winning just three golds, five silvers and seven bronzes

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