August 30, 2012 (Mongolia) – As in past years, the Mongolian Ski Association organized a training camp for local coaches and young Mongolian athletes. Staged from August 9-19, the camp was carried out in cooperation with the German Ski Association and Cross-Country expert Georg Zipfel.

Ten coaches and 19 athletes aged 13 to 14 years came together for different training formats in Handgait, a town 30 km outside of the Mongolian capital Ulan Bator. Training sessions included roller skiing, running, strength and speed training. As a former Cross-Country coach of the German national team, Georg Zipfel additionally transferred his knowledge about training, timing, controlling and rules.

On his return home, Georg Zipfel reaffirmed: “The FIS Solidarity concept is definitely showing an effect! For all participants, it has been an optimal training camp. Local coaches already confirmed that they modified their training sessions following the camp. Once again, we recognized that the Mongolian skiers have great potential as they are physically very strong. The 13 to 14 year-old children are now at a perfect age to continue with professional training. On the other hand, the camp once again opened our eyes towards the needs of Mongolian skiers. They still definitively lack support with regard to equipment such as skis, poles and shoes. However, we are moving into the right direction. Even better, German TV is now looking into producing a documentary on developing skiing in Mongolia.

In their plans to promote winter sports in their country, the Mongolian Ski Association and National Olympic Committee are supported by FIS and IOC Solidarity Programmes. Experts from foreign countries such as Georg Zipfel have provided on-site support and help develop the Mongolian winter sports teams.