Russia has officially assumed the mantle of holding the next Summer University Games in Kazan in 2013. The official changeover has taken place at the closing ceremony that was held in the Chinese city of Shenzhen to bring down the curtain on the latest global competition for students.

        The official competition's flag was handed to Kazan's mayor Ilsur Metshin and Russian first vice-premier Igor Shuvalov. During his speech at the closing ceremony, Shuvalov hailed the University Games' organizers and called them "the most powerful team which shared its experience with the Russian delegation". "We congratulate all the sportsmen and look forward to see you in Russia next year", Shuvalov added.

      Following the success of the Chinese event, the pressure is now on Kazan to stage a similarly impressive tournament. "Construction in Kazan is going as scheduled and will be completed on time," Shuvalov said during his visit to the Games Village in Shenzhen. The city will change its transport system and infrastructure to keep sportsmen from difficulties with moving from one object ot another.

      This year at the games in Shenzhen Russia won 42 golds and finished second in the overall medals table. However, their effort was dwarfed by the haul of hosts China, who notched up 75 golds.

Sources: RIA Novosti Russia Today