I am extremely pleased with the idea initiated by the Slovenian University Sports Association to organise the 26th Winter Universiade 2013.

The city of Maribor is well known for organising the alpine skiing World Cup competitions. Due to the close proximity of the city to the ski slopes there are always many thousands of spectators enjoying the racing.

A wonderful atmosphere and very pleasant surroundings are other reasons that all the competitors always gladly return to Maribor every year.

In Maribor I was a winner of the giant slalom race and thus I experienced one of the greatest moments of my career. I am convinced that this city will similarly stay in the memory of many students taking part in the winter universiade.

I am looking forward to meeting you at the slopes of Pohorje.

Yours faithfully,