Russian judoka Arsen Galstyan dedicated the Olympic gold medal that he won Saturday to the victims of fatal flooding in his home region of Russia.
Galstyan won Russia's first gold in London in the 60-kilogram final on Saturday, beating Japan's Hiroaki Hiraoka by ippon.
Flash floods killed 171 people and devastated more than 7,000 homes in and around the town of Krymsk earlier this month, leaving leaving thousands homeless and in need of emergency supplies.
Various sporting and entertainment events were canceled and a national day of mourning declared.
"I was at the place where the tragedy was," Galstyan said.
"I expressed my sympathy to the people. I dedicate my victory to them and to all of Russia."
Last week players from Russian Premier League football side FC Krasnodar donated almost $11,000 to help the victims, the club said.
