Greetings from the President of the Province Dr. Luis Durnwalder
The Südtirol Gardenissima, the grand finale of the ski season, will take place also this year, on 1st April 2012. Save the date!

As always, there will be many participants, and the event will see both great champions of the past and present and ambitious leisure skiers looking forward to challenging their favourite racers. The 6 km of the track and the about 1000 m of difference in altitude make this slalom the longest one of those taking place in the Alps.

Let me express my sincere thanks to the organizing committee that will ensure also this year a smooth running of this unique sports day, and of course a warm welcome to all the participants of this edition of the Südtirol Gardenissima.

I wish you to spend a great time filled with serenity and joy in our wonderful place.

Dr. Luis Durnwalder
President of the Province Bolzano - South Tyrol

Greetings of the Provincial Councillor for Tourism

How to resist the charm of the longest giant slalom in the world, whose 16th edition will be held on 1st April 2012?
Every year, for 650 athletes the Südtirol Gardenissima is a fixed event at the end of the ski season. To participate, you must register on time, and so it may happen that the race is fully booked already in early March.
The success of this unique giant slalom is the result of a perfect mix of adrenaline, physical performance and atmosphere, all at the foot of the majestic Dolomite peaks, a UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site.
With a length of 6 km and a difference in altitude of over 1000 m, the Südtirol Gardenissima is 3-4 times longer than an average World Cup giant slalom. Faced with this challenge, not only amateur skiers but also famous racers have to invest all their stamina when they leave the start gate on Seceda to compete against the clock and rush to the finish area along the fastest line.
The Südtirol Gardenissima is for sure an outstanding competition, but it deserves the patronage not just for this reason: thanks to the excellent work of the organizing committee and the commitment of volunteers, over the years this giant slalom has become a cult event of the South Tyrolean ski sports and the spectacular closing event of each ski season.

Dr. Hans Berger
Provincial Councillor for Tourism