Nikolay Zimyatov

Biographical information

RolesCompeted in Olympic Games
SexMale
Full nameNikolay Semyonovich•Zimyatov
Used nameNikolay•Zimyatov
Original nameНиколай Семёнович•Зимятов
Born28 June 1955 in Rumyantsevo, Moskva (RUS)
Measurements183 cm / 68 kg
AffiliationsSpartak Moskva, Moskva (RUS) / CSKA Moskva, Moskva (RUS)
NOC Soviet Union
Nationality Russian Federation
Medals OG
Gold 4
Silver 1
Bronze 0
Total 5

Biography

Nikolay Zimyatov is the greatest Soviet or Russian male cross-country skier. His fame rests primarily on his performance at the 1980 Winter Olympics in Lake Placid, when he won three gold medals in the 30 km, 50 km, and relay. He added two further Olympic medals in 1984, defending his 30 km title, and helping the Soviets to win a silver in the relay. At other championships he was much less successful, as his best finish at a World Championships was second in the 1978 30 km at Lahti. His other placements at the World Championships were fourth in the relay and fifth in the 15 km in 1978 and sixth in the relay, eighth at 15 km and 17th over 30 km in 1985. Zimyatov also won four Soviet Championships – in 1978 in the 30 km and relay and in 1979 in both 15 and 30 km. After his sporting career Zimyatov worked as a cross-country skiing coach, coaching the 2002 Russian Olympic team. In 1980 he married Lyubov Sykova, who placed 13th at 20 km race at the 1985 World Championships.

Results

Games Discipline (Sport) / Event NOC / Team Pos Medal Nationality As
1980 Winter Olympics Cross Country Skiing (Skiing) URS RUS Nikolay Zimyatov
15 kilometres, Men (Olympic) 4
30 kilometres, Men (Olympic) 1 Gold
50 kilometres, Men (Olympic) 1 Gold
4 × 10 kilometres Relay, Men (Olympic) Soviet Union 1 Gold
1984 Winter Olympics Cross Country Skiing (Skiing) URS RUS Nikolay Zimyatov
15 kilometres, Men (Olympic) 6
30 kilometres, Men (Olympic) 1 Gold
50 kilometres, Men (Olympic) 13
4 × 10 kilometres Relay, Men (Olympic) Soviet Union 2 Silver

Special Notes