Russian Bobsledder Follows Raw Vegetarian Diet

Meat-free athletes have become increasingly popular in the competitive arena, and this year’s Winter Olympics is no exception. Recently, The Moscow Times published a feature story on Alexei Voyevoda, a raw vegeterian bobsledder who will be competing this year in Sochi. Voyevoda’s large frame and arm-wrestling world champion status contradicts the popular myth that one must eat animals to build muscle and strength. The Sports Ministry reports that only 25 percent of the Russian population exercises regularly, and Voyevoda sees himself as an advocate for physical wellness for his fellow citizens. “My role as one of the ambassadors of the Games is to promote sport, to encourage people to adopt a healthy lifestyle,” he told The Moscow Times.