Russian Holidays - Diver's Day

Every year on May 5th Russia celebrates Diver Day. The holiday was officially included in the register of Russian memorable dates in 2002. It is not a public holiday. On May 5, 1882, the world's first diving school was opened. It was located in the port city of Kronstadt, located on the shores of the Gulf of Finland. Emperor Alexander III took personal part in the creation of the educational institution, issuing a decree on its construction. The diving school has become a unique facility. There were no analogues to it in the whole world. Foreigners came to Russia to study here. The fame of Russian divers, graduates of the educational institution, thundered in all countries. Education at school was aimed at solving military problems. Students were taught not only how to work and stay under water for a long time, but also how to correctly set and remove mines. A highly paid job in the Russian Navy awaited each graduate of the educational institution. On Diver's Day, many sports competitions are held in professional circles. Both experienced diving specialists and “newbies” in their field participate in relay races for speed, agility, and endurance. One of the most common competitions on this day is the task of taking off a diving suit at speed. Whoever is first wins. Divers compete in distance running, dive in artificially created difficult conditions, and conduct competitive search activities under water. The winners of the tournaments receive certificates of honor, prizes, and commemorative cups. On May 5, the Ministry of Emergency Situations obligatorily congratulates divers and discusses with the management staff the successes, tasks and pressing problems of this professional field. In some schools and kindergartens, on the eve of the celebration, they draw thematic pictures and tell children about the hard work and daily heroism of representatives of this profession. In addition to the divers themselves, drivers also celebrate May 5, counting themselves among this group of professionals. Many of them even start their diving season on this day.