Sports here unite different generations, instill discipline, and teach resilience. A Turmush correspondent spoke with the family about their path to success and how they demonstrate their will to win.
The family leader, Valery Valeryevich Shabanov, is a professional ski instructor and has become the initiator of this sports dynasty, involving all family members in the activities. His wife, Yulia Shapovalova, teaches English at M. Lomonosov School, providing the necessary support and stability for the family.
The Shabanovs have three children, each of whom has achieved certain successes in sports:
- Konstantin (21 years old), a candidate for master of sports (CMS).
- Arina (17 years old), a candidate for master of sports (CMS).
- Roman (6th grade student), studying at school No. 2 named after Baisara uulu Sadyr Ake, a promising young skier.
The Shabanov children started skiing at an early age: Konstantin began at 7 years old, Arina at 5, and the youngest, Roman, started at 4, eager to keep up with the older siblings.
The family’s daily routine is clearly structured. “Everyone has their own schedule. Our daughter studies in the morning, then goes to the slopes, while Roman trains in the morning and only then goes to school. They are already used to this schedule and take responsibility for their training,” shares Yulia.
Roman fondly recalls his first competition at the age of 6, where he was the youngest participant. The medal he received inspired him for further achievements. He already has gold from competitions in Chon-Kurchak and a victory at the "I am a Champion" tournament.
The older children faced more serious challenges. Arina represented Kyrgyzstan at international competitions in Turkey, China, and at the Asian Games. However, the path to success was not easy: both Arina and Konstantin underwent serious surgeries after injuries, but this did not stop their passion for sports.
According to the parents, awards are not the main goal. The main thing is the character that is formed on the slopes. “Sports teach patience and responsibility. There is no rivalry between the children — they support each other, and the older ones always help the younger one,” notes Yulia Shapovalova.
The Shabanov family is always together at away competitions. They have visited Bishkek, Orlovka, and Naryn. The parents admit that they worry about their children more than the athletes themselves, understanding the risks associated with this sport.
The children's main dream is to participate in the Olympic Games, and the parents do everything possible to help them achieve this.
Outside of the ski slopes, the family leads an active lifestyle, including hiking in the mountains, trips to Issyk-Kul, cycling, and even snowboarding (except for mom, who remains loyal to skiing).
The main advice from the Shabanovs: “Do not be afraid of anything, do not give up. But the most important thing is discipline, determination, and a sincere desire to achieve your goals.”
Gallery: The skiing Shabanov family from Karakol.
