The longest Giant Slalom ski race in the world is due to be staged again next month in Italy's Val Gardena.
The Gardenissima race (gardenissima.eu) descends 1033 vertical metres over its 6km length down from the start gate on Seceda at 2518m above sea level to 1033m as competitors negotiate 115 gates on Saturday, 4th April, when the race will be staged for the 17th time.
The race attracts over 650 both amateur and professional racers and this year the start list includes World cup racers Andrea Fischbacher , Stefanie Moser, Isolde Kostner and Peter Runggaldier.
But as the race is 3-4 times longer than an average World Cup giant slalom, not only amateur skiers but also famous racers have to invest all their stamina when they leave to compete against the clock and rush to the finish area along the fastest line.
Competitors are divided in to more than 50 different individual and team categories according to age, gender, pro or amateur status, disability - if any, but the race organisers say that the priority is that a good time is had by all.
"The success of this unique giant slalom is the result of a perfect mix of adrenaline, physical performance and atmosphere, all at the foot of the majestic Dolomite peaks, a UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site," says local Val Gardena councillor Dr. Hans Berger.