Hockey

Russia's top hockey players, led by Alexander Ovechkin, Ilya Kovalchuk and Sergei Federov, are in Moscow for a three day Olympic orientation camp.

A noisy crowd of more than 3,000 fans watched as the future Olympians were put through their paces by head coach Vyacheslav Bykov. At times, the players took time out from the on-ice drills to put on a show for the fans.

"This isn't an ice show. This is a part of very serious work," said Bykov. "I'm very happy to see all our stars here. And I can say that all 36 players who are now at this training camp are ready to play at the Olympics. Even if it was tomorrow."

For their part, the players appreciated the support of the fans who turned out.

"It was something special to see as many people come out to watch us practice," said defenseman Sergei Zubov. "It's a special feeling."

Russia will come into the 2010 Winter Olympics as one of the favourites to end an 18-year gold medal drought. In each of the last two World Championships, they've managed to beat their arch rivals from Canada in the finals.

"I don't want to look ahead," said former Washington Captials forward Sergei Fedorov. "Hopefully we'll present a strong team and that's our goal. People might call us favourites, might not. I personally like being the underdog."