After a year, the winter sports games returned to Jahodná. The weather is different every year, and this time the competitors were greeted by thick fog. However, even poor visibility did not deter skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts. All generations met on the slopes: seniors – our former employees, current colleagues, their children, and grandchildren.

The opening of the 29th edition of our company sports games was accompanied by the inevitable opening ceremony. The "Olympic" flame was lit jointly by Marcel Novosad, Vice President of Production, Takehiko Odamura, General Manager Marketing and Procurement Strategy, and Toshiaki Takamatsu, General Manager Strategic Planning. Both Japanese colleagues took part in the giant slalom competition. Takehiko Odamura shared his impressions of the event:  "It has been more than 10 years since I enjoyed skiing last time, but I had wonderful time participating the competition with everyone. It was so impressive for me that wide generations are enjoying the Winter Sports Games together under USSK flag."

There were competitions for the youngest, a children's carnival, and disciplines for juniors. And there was no shortage of refreshments – competitors refueled with goulash or baguettes and warmed up with hot tea. After the races, skiers could enjoy half of the slope, which was reserved for our event.

And how did the contestants enjoy the day?

Lucia Hlavňová: "First and foremost, I would like to thank the organizers for preparing such a pleasant, high-quality event for the employees. Despite the less than ideal weather, our whole family enjoyed the day. Our Japanese managers surprised us by not only opening the games and presenting the prizes, but also taking part in the giant slalom. I would like to see the events on the big slope commented on in the same way as the children's competitions. Since the start of each round is not precisely determined, the competitors must be alert. But then again, wouldn't two commentators be talking over each other too much? In any case, even without that, we are already looking forward to the next anniversary edition.

Róbert Bódi: "Everything was very professional, I didn't notice any problems or shortcomings. Except for the weather, of course – but you can't choose or influence that."

Zuzana Brindová: "Overall, I was satisfied, as was my daughter. We were a little disappointed by the fog and high temperatures, which weren't ideal for snow. We skied, competed, and even won medals. The opening ceremony took a little longer than expected, but ultimately it was a pleasant day. For next year, I would perhaps move the gates to the opposite side before the second round, as the track around the gates was quite worn and ruts were forming." Michal Šoltýs: "The Winter Sports Games were a good, successful event, but with a gradually decreasing number of participants - competitors. Fog and above-zero temperatures affected the quality of the snow. As global warming is having a significant impact, it might be worth considering organizing this event in the second half of January. In the past, I also appreciated the three training sessions before the Winter Sports Games, which were very popular, but many people did not show up for the actual competition..."