Volunteers Eagerly Join In Large Numbers
Many of them have already experienced the atmosphere of the World Cup under Chopok in the past.
Seven years ago, there were 600 of them, from which organizers selected 350. In 2021, spectators were not allowed into the stands due to strict safety rules related to the coronavirus pandemic, so organizers utilized half as many volunteers.
Volunteers will be an integral part of the World Cup in Jasna in January 2024. Organizers are particularly pleased that many are signing up to help again. "So far, around 480 have registered, but registration is still ongoing. They can sign up until December 10, and then in the second to third weekend of December, we will select 350 of them who will be needed for the World Cup," informed volunteer manager Monika Rigociová.
Experience on the Track
The interest in being part of the World Cup in Jasna also pleases the head of the race committee, Martin Kupčo. "They are signing up in large numbers. Not only those who were there last time but also those who helped us in 2016," he said. "It is positive news also because we will have many people on the track with experience from previous World Cups here," Kupčo added regarding the personnel situation before the upcoming skiing event in Slovakia.
"Out of the applicants so far, about a hundred have already helped us in the past. Whether it was in 2016 or last in 2021," Rigociová adds to his words. If you have already signed up, it is far from certain that you will be selected. The selection process can be challenging for participants. "Only on the slope do they have to show that they really know how to ski. The terrain on which they will operate during the World Cup is demanding. It is quite challenging to stay on the groomed snow, which is waterlogged. It takes strength and skill. Not everyone can do it," reminds Rigociová, who has helped with the selection of volunteers in the past.
As a reward for those who ultimately pass the selection process, it will not only be a lifelong experience to be close to the top skiing stars, including our current leader Petra Vlhova, but also commemorative items such as hats, socks, and other small items that organizers have prepared for volunteers.
