November 11, 2007 (Livigno, Italy) – Ten days ago the first snow already covered the Livigno valley and yesterday it was snowing even more: a perfect season start, for all cross-country skiers. This is also a promising start for La Sgambeda, the traditional FIS Marathon Cup opening race taking place December 16 in Livigno, and celebrating its 18th year.

The organizing committee is planning to open a training course soon, the ideal offer to practice and get ready for the race. The local tourist board will issue the official race information as soon as it is available. About 30 days before the race, the start list is already filling up with more that 600 participants registered. If the weather continues like this, with big snow falls, the expectations can be really positive. Deadline for registration is 13 December, registration fee is 55 Euros.

The La Sgambeda prize money is 21,000 Euros, and there are many who would like to win – several athletes from different countries have confirmed their participation including Estonia, Liechtenstein, Switzerland, Sweden and Norway, just to mention a few. La Sgambeda is the opening race of the FIS Marathon Cup 2007/08, the cross country skiing world cup of the long distance.

Not only champions, but also the “famous unknown” skiers will compete at La Sgambeda. For them, a special training programme will be offered in the weeks before the race to develop and improve in their technique with Daniel Sandoz and the Sandoz Concept team. The “Snow Sport Opening” is the best solution for participants who would like to start with cross-country skiing or improve their skills.

Many famous and important champions have confirmed their participation including Italy’s Pamela Novaglio, from Brescia, a paralympic champion, and Daniele Stefanoni from Lecco.

Last but not least, a Sgambeda special hotel package, includes the registration fee, entrance ticket for the Bormio Terme Spa, 3 days/2 nights B&B – all for only 139 Euro.

For booking information and reservation, please contact booking@livigno.eu. The official website has all general information about the race, the registration policy and the hospitality – visit www.lasgambeda.it.