SKI SEASON OPENS

VLASENICA, JANUARY 3 /SRNA/ – The ski season officially opened today at the Igrišta Ski Centre near Vlasenica, with skiing free of charge on the first day.

The Minister of Trade and Tourism of Republika Srpska, Denis Šulić, pointed out the importance of the Igrišta Ski Centre for the region, stating that Vlasenica and surrounding municipalities are already feeling the benefits, which will become even more evident once accommodation facilities are completed. "I call on everyone to unite and create a common front to enable investors to invest here, open new jobs, and provide accommodation capacities that will benefit the entire region," Šulić told the press. He noted that the ski season opened on Jahorina a month ago, which is now fully booked with visitors from all over the world; the season also opened on Ravna Planina toward the end of the year. He expressed hope that skiing season on Kozara would begin in the coming days as well. Director of the Jahorina Olympic Centre, Igor Žiljak, said that ski run "Two" opened today, while run "One" is currently being covered with artificial snow and should be ready for skiing in a few days. "I invite everyone to visit this ski centre. The weather for skiing today is wonderful. Although it is chilly, I believe everyone will enjoy the nature and beauty here," Žiljak added. One of the skiers, Aleksa Stefanović from Šabac, told the presss that he also visited the Igrišta Ski Centre last year and said that although it has fewer slopes compared to other ski resorts, the runs are very well prepared. Skier Miodrag from Obrenovac, who visited Igrišta for the first time and usually skis on Kopaonik as well as in Austria and Germany, said he was pleasantly surprised by the ski centre. "The slope is beautiful and long," Miodrag said, inviting everyone to visit the area and enjoy its natural beauty. The Igrišta Ski Centre is entering the winter season for the second consecutive year as part of the Jahorina Olympic Centre system.