Sports powerhouse Russia sent the largest-ever delegation to compete in the upcoming Winter Universiade in Harbin, aiming at beating the host China to dominate the medal tally.

"All the athletes in Russia delegation are capable of making good performance at the Universiade. China is our biggest rival here, but we are confident to top the medal standings," said Sergy Seilanov, chef de mission of the delegation.

Except the men's curling and women's ice hockey, 180 Russian athletes will take part in 79 of the 81 events at the Winter Universiade, slated for February 18-28, featuring 12 sports.

"We know it is quite difficult to compete with China because of their advantage on home turf. I believe Chinese athletes will perform as well as they did in the Beijing Olympics," he added.

The host delegation includes 193 students from 13 universities and colleges across the country, the largest ever Chinese delegation to a Winter Universiade. They will compete in 69 events.

Russia finished second on the medal standing by nine golds, 13 silvers and 11 bronzes at last Winter Universiade in Turin in 2007, while South Korea collected 10 golds, 12 silvers and nine bronzes to lead the tally.

Taking three golds, six silvers and six bronzes in Turin Universiade, China is aiming at winning more than its record of six golds in Harbin.

(Xinhua News Agency February 18, 2009)