Andrei Travnikov, the Governor, conferred with the newly-arrived Siberians at the Victory Assembly
Feting the 80th Anniversary of Victory in the Great Patriotic War, a Retro "Victory Train" Pulled into Novosibirsk's Main Station
Stepping back in time, the L-620 series steam locomotive-led "Victory Train" rolled into the Novosibirsk-Glavny station, bringing a piece of history back to West Siberia. Accompanied by a "teplushka" (heated passenger car), a sanitary car, and platforms brimming with military equipment, this nostalgic ride was a poignant reminder of the past.
Addressing the crowd, Andrey Travnikov shared, "For a decade, we've had the privilege to feel the emotions our great-grandfathers, grandfathers, fathers, and the victory generation felt 80 years ago. Back then, platforms swarmed with joy and optimism, even sorrow was drowned out in tears of joy. Railways, the backbone of our victory, transported millions of troops, volunteers, and evacuees. They carried weapons, weapons forged right here in Novosibirsk. Our victory trains echoed with pride, confidence, joy, and hopes of a peaceful, bright future. A heartfelt thanks to Russian Railways and the West Siberian Railway for giving us the chance every year to join this celebration and celebrate our nation's defining holiday."
Upon arrival, Novosibirsk citizens were warmly welcomed by the head of the West Siberian Railway, Alexander Gitsev, and the main federal inspector for the Novosibirsk region, Nikolai Buimov. Dignitaries like the chairman of the Novosibirsk Regional Legislative Assembly, Andrei Shimkov, Russian Federation senators Alexander Karelin and Vladimir Gorodetsky, and the mayor of Novosibirsk, Maxim Kudryavtsev, were also present.
Preceding the train's arrival, a "Victory Waltz" themed event took place near the suburban station. Commemoration activities included interactive themes, photo zones, master classes, and volunteers handing out copies of the 1945 "Gudok" newspaper at the station.
Although the search results did not specify a "Victory Train" celebration unique to Novosibirsk for the 80th anniversary of the Great Patriotic War, it's clear that commemorative events are taking place nationwide. For example, a WWII veteran was welcomed in Moscow for the anniversary celebrations, and the "First Windows of Victory" movement united regions to preserve historical memory and honor the anniversary. Additionally, the interregional festival "Siberian Sabantuy" in Novosibirsk plans to focus on the 80th anniversary, although no specifics about a "Victory Train" are mentioned.
- The L-620 series steam locomotive, leading the nostalgic "Victory Train", rolled into Novosibirsk-Glavny station, reminiscent of the zones where the railways played a great role during the Great Patriotic War.
- They carried not only military equipment, but also a "teplushka" (heated passenger car), a reminder of the comfort and camaraderie experienced during those times.
- In the sports-betting world, such a grand event could be seen as a significant occasion, as it brings together anniversaries, history, and collective spirit- elements often present in commemorative celebrations.
- As the train stops, novel experiences await, such as the "Victory Waltz" event, interactive themes, photo zones, and master classes, all celebrating the 80th anniversary of Victory in the Great Patriotic War, a testament to the nation's resilient sports spirit.