Franz Berger - Race Director of the International Biathlon Union (IBU), the man who fulfills the tasks of a competition coordinator at the nine World Cups and the World Championships as long as the Olympic biathlon games and evaluates the season’s competitions. He shared with us his impressions on the preparation of the Nordic Ski Center of Khanty-Mansiysk to the World Cup Final 2009/10.

     -How do you assess the reconstruction, which has been held at the stadium before the current competition?

     -A lot of good changes have been done, but the best for me is that the office very is comfortable to work in has been built. The start and finish zones are changed what also improves the conditions for the competitions.

     -Is there something that you would like to be better?

     -Now, entering the stadium, we can see a beautiful view of the arena. This fact has already been evaluated by everyone - the audience, the TV, and the athletes. Next year the organizers plan to finish the reconstruction. During the summer and autumn of 2010, the rooms for the athletes are going to be built (rest rooms, biathlon family club). Also the stands will be expanded and, consequently, the stadium can accommodate more spectators.

     -Is the Nordic Ski Centre ready for holding the World Cup 2011?

     -You already have a very good stadium. And after some more reconstruction which will take place this summer, here can be hold a World Cup at the highest level.

     -What do you think as a Race Director about the complexity of the route in Khanty-Mansiysk in comparison with the other stages of the World Cup?

     -Everywhere, where the World Cup biathlon races are taking place, the trails are in a very good condition. Khanty-Mansiysk is not the exception.

     -What is your opinion on the organization of current events?

     -I come here for many years and it has never been here any problems with the organization.

     -What are your impressions of being in Khanty-Mansiysk?

     -This place is very different from Europe, the Alps, where I’m from, nevertheless it is a very nice city and interesting region. Here is rather cool and fresh weather, but I like it.

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