Super-G opens the start: World Alpine Skiing Championships begin

ARE, (Patria) - The World Alpine Skiing Championships begin today in the Swedish town of Are, officially opened last night by FIS President Gian Franco Kasper.

This is the third time that the Swedish town, located in northern Sweden, has hosted the Alpine Skiing Championships. Previous editions were held in 1954 and 2007.

"We are delighted to bring the Alpine World Ski Championships back for the third time," said FIS President Gian Franco Kasper. 

Kasper added that the organisers have worked tirelessly to ensure that athletes have ideal conditions to showcase world-class performances in pursuit of gold.

"The conditions on the slopes are ideal and all aspects of the World Championships indicate that Are will truly inspire not only the athletes at the start, but the entire skiing world," Kasper concluded.

Nearly 600 athletes will represent a record number of 77 countries. A total of 11 medals will be awarded, in five individual events for men and women and a mixed team event. The World Championships will be broadcast live in dozens of countries. More than 800 media representatives will be on site in Are. 

The competition will begin with today's women's super-G race at 12:30 p.m.