Skiweek 2024: Building Friendships on the Slopes

In the heart of the beautiful, snow-covered High Tatras, at the Tatranská Lomnica ski resort, an extraordinary meeting for exchange students took place from February 25th to March 2nd, 2024. This skiing training organized by Rotary District 2240 was supevised by Rotarian Ondrej Kollár, with the assistance of three former exchange students – Rotex members. It was attended by 34 exchange students from various corners of the world, spending their exchange period in our district.

For many of these students, who come from countries where snow-covered mountains are a rare sight, the opportunity to learn to ski or snowboard was an exciting adventure. However, what truly made this trip unforgettable was not just the adrenaline rush of skiing down the slopes but also the friendly bonds that were formed during this week-long escapade.

The students improved their skills under the guidance of experienced local instructors and enthusiastically tackled slopes of various difficulty levels. The smooth running of the event was undoubtedly supported by the pleasant weather and the fact that every participant left without any injuries or illnesses.

But it didn’t end on the slopes. An evening program in the form of quizzes, karaoke, or other fun competitions was planned for each day. One of the days was even spent at Aquapark Poprad, where students could relax and unwind from the skiing. However, all this program was not just about fun. It was an opportunity for cultural exchange, and every moment was planned to maximize mutual friendships and create memories that would last a lifetime. Testimonies from the participating exchange students approve it:

“The Skiweek in Tatranská Lomnica has been the best Rotary event I have attended so far, and it will probably retain that title for the entire exchange period. During this meeting, we managed to improve our friendships in a way that was not possible before. We are truly grateful for the patience and effort that the Rotex members and Ondrej Kollár put into the program and the course of this perfect skiing training.” Paola Yaretzi Zozoaga Ramos, Mexico

“I had a fantastic time! I had never been on a snowboard before, so I was thrilled with this opportunity. It was amazing to see how everyone supported and encouraged each other. I’m really glad I decided to participate, and I will definitely recommend this experience to all future exchange students.” Ellison Holland, USA

“Skiing was a very special experience for me because back home in Brazil, I would definitely never have the chance to do anything like it. Apart from skiing on the slopes, I appreciate the time spent in the amazing community of exchange students and the evening program, which always entertained us. Skiweek has been the best trip so far, and I will never forget those beautiful days spent in the High Tatras.” Maria Eduarda Passos da Costa Leal, Brazil

These comments summarize the essence of skiing training – a blend of adventure, skill improvement, and most importantly, friendship. It was obvious that something exceptional was formed in the snowy mountains – a community united by the common journey of international exchange.

Lýdia Chrobáková (Rotex)