Group unveils puppy gift for Zagitova

NHK -- May 04

People in northern Japan have unveiled an Akita puppy, which will be sent to Olympic figure skating champion Alina Zagitova as a gift.

A group dedicated to the breed's preservation held a news conference on Thursday in Odate City, Akita Prefecture.

The red-haired female puppy was born in February.

Zagitova chose her from 5 candidates and has said she will call the dog "Masaru."

In a video message, Zagitova said she's looking forward to the arrival of the puppy.

The group organized the gift to honor Zagitova's gold medal at the PyeongChang Winter Olympics.

The skater said she fell in love with the breed while training in Japan.

The group plans to hold a presentation ceremony in Moscow as early as late this month. A preservation group in Russia is expected to advise Zagitova about how to raise the dog.

The current owner, Masami Hamada, said he was pleased that his puppy was chosen. He added that he hopes Zagitova will love the dog.

May 04 (ANNnewsCH) - 平昌(ピョンチャン)オリンピック、女子フィギュアスケート金メダルのロシアのザギトワ選手に贈られる秋田犬がお披露目されました。 贈られる秋田犬は、2月15日に秋田県大仙市で生まれた赤毛の雌です。秋田犬の本場の秋田県大館市でお披露目されました。