February 9, 2006 – The Holland Heineken House was today officially opened by Theo Fledderus, Secretary General of NOC*NSF and Ed Verheijen, Chef de Mission of NOC*NSF.

Conveniently located close to the Olympic Oval, the Holland Heineken House is expected to host over 50,000 guests through-out the Winter Olympics and will serve as a base for Dutch athletes, fans and the media. International guests are also warmly welcome. Entrance to the facilities is free.

This year the Holland Heineken House is built around the theme “Ice and Fire.” This theme is reflected throughout the venue. Upon entering the venue visitors find a 16m x 30m indoor ice-skating rink, complete with a skate rental facility. The main party tent, decked out in orange and complete with bars which look as if they have been carved from ice, emulates the spirit of the Winter Olympics and the warmth of Dutch pride. Each evening the party tent will play host to an exciting line-up of well-known Dutch and international artists. Special celebrations will be held to honour the Dutch athletes and celebrate any victories they have during the games.

Other features of the Holland Heineken House include: a business lounge for sponsors, a special athletes’ room for the competitors, a VIP room, and a fully serviced press centre open to Dutch and international press. A range of Holland Heineken House and NOC*NSF merchandise is available for purchase at the fan shop. Tickets for the games can also be purchased from the ATP Sports-event desk.

A crew of over 200 people, mainly volunteers, will staff the Holland Heineken House. A range of Dutch and international dishes are available at the restaurants and take away stations. Choices range from traditional Dutch fare such as erwtensoep and bitterballen, to complete menus at the a la carte restaurant overlooking the ice rink, and the Piazza restaurant specialising in Italian recipes. The Holland Heineken House is located on the grounds of the Centro Universitario Sportive at Via M. Panetti 30, 10127 Torino.

For more information visit www.Heineken.nl

Opening times: Holland Heineken House: 10th – 26th February Daily 09.00 – 02.00 Press Centre: 10th – 26th February Daily 09.00 – 24.00