Bulgaria's Bansko Hosts European Cup DH Race

Novinite.com, March 11, 2008

Bulgaria's winter resort of Bansko became the arena of the thrilling Europa Cup downhill ski race on March 7-8.

Winner of the first start became current European Cup leader Stefan Thanei from Italy with a total time of 1:24.55. Second was Cristoph Alster (AUT) with 1:24.68 and third place another Austrian - Peter Struger, with a time of 1:24.84.

The second DH race was won by Florian Scheiber (AUT) with 1:24.56 . Peter Struger (AUT) placed second with 1:24.83, while Mirko Deflorian (ITA) was third with 1:24.96. Stefan Georgiev marked a success for Bulgaria placing 23rd.

Skiers were pleased by perfect organisation as Bansko became the first Bulgarian resort to host a FIS event for the last twenty years.

Great weather, lots of music, and ice shows pleased the guests.

One of the sponsors of the event, Carlsberg, added to the pleasure of all ski lovers, who could enjoy a beer or two on the ice bar built next to the Banderitsa run, on which the races took place.