The grand opening of the ski season in Pirin Mountain’s Bansko winter resort took place on December 15. Special guests of the event this year, were ski champions Janica Kostelić, pictured right, Kjetil André Aamodt, centre, and Marc Girardelli, who skied down the ski run Tomba as part of the opening performance.

Ski teachers of Ulen (Bansko resort concessionaire) also performed for the audience, accompanied by a fireworks show.

Following the demonstration runs, a news conference took place with Kostelić, Aamodt and Girardelli. Aamodt said he was not used to such big winter resorts as Bansko. Girardelli was impressed by the Vitosha ski conditions. He said Aleko would need better lifts and when they are ready it would be a really pleasant place for skiing.

A concert on the occasion of the official opening of the ski season featured Bulgarian musicians Deo, Karisma, Diva ballet, Upsurt and Lora Karadjova.

The season opening was attended by eminent mountaineer Reinhold Messner.