In Livigno will be held famous Italian ski race

On December 16, 2010 at the world famous ski resort of Livigno in Italy will begin La Sgambeda ski marathon. Already traditional La Sgambeda is the first stage of International Ski Federation Cross-Country World Cup. As in the real marathon, participants of the ski race run a distance of 42, 185 km. This season the marathon is expected to be attended by more than 1000 athletes, and a total prize is amounted to 30,000 euros. Popularization of marathon races and other cross-country disciplines are among the main tasks of the organizers of La Sgambeda. Therefore, to attract more participants the usual program of the event has been significantly changed. So, this year in addition to basic freestyle race for 42 km, will be held competitions among women at the half of distance (21 km), as well as races for children aged eight to 17 years (Minisgambeda).

However Sgambeda is not only a ski race, but a variety of recreational activities, dedicated to the opening of the winter season in Livigno. At the resort will be opened Christmas fair and in the evening of 16 December will be organized a spectacular torchlight performance with the participation of world famous alpine skiers.

Participation in the race for the spectators is free. Those who intend to compete will have to pay the fee of 45-55 euros.

The small town of Livigno is situated in the province of Lombardy in the northern Italy. Situated at an altitude of 1800 meters above sea level, it is considered to be one of the highest settlements in Europe. Because of the proximity of the border with Switzerland, in Livigno exists a regime of free trade (Duty Free), so the resort is one of the most popular in Italy. Each year the resort’s lifts carry about one million skiers. In addition to skiing and shopping Livigno attracts tourists with opened last year Europe's largest water park Aqua Granda Livigno Wellness with the total area of 20,000 square meters.

The closest international airports are Milan (235 km) and Verona (294 km).