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Vedran Pavlek never won any World Championship points when he was part of the Croatian National Skiing Team back in the 90’s. He was a good skier, but just couldn’t cope with the overwhelming competition. He was a man of vision however, and was well aware of his strong points: he is a hard worker, has excellent organisational skills and has contacts all over the world.

After his professional skiing career was over, he knew that he wanted to be in charge of the National Team in Croatia. With all honesty, not many people stood in his way. He became the manager of the Croatian Alpine Skiing National Team and the collaboration proved to be extremely successful. He never could have made it if it weren’t for Ivica and Janica Kostelić, but luck plays an important part in everything. With the two skier’s amazing achievements to back him up, he managed to obtain financial support from sponsors and the State alike. But his true dream was to organise a race in his hometown, Zagreb.

Ten years ago, such an idea would have seemed silly at best, but Pavlek knew that it could be pulled off. He lobbied successfully with the International Ski Federation and united businessmen and politicians alike, even Milan Bandič, the controversial mayor of Zagreb, agreed to help out with the finances and granted him a sum of €2 million  for the organisation of the race. Without his help, he managed to collect just half the amount needed for the organisation. Bandič paid a high price for his support: the grant might have cost him the presidential elections for that year, and his success in the next mayoral elections was also in question.

Croatia is a country on the verge of bankruptcy where many people who are retired, live in poverty. It seems inconceivable that in those circumstances Croatia organised a race, costing €4 million.

On the other hand, the men’s slalom on Wednesday was broadcasted live to over 20 countries where Croatia and Zagreb were introduced to a lot of people thanks to these broadcasts. Some believe that more people will decide to visit Croatia because of such events. This data, however, can not be verified.

The fact is that Pavlek accomplished something incredible by bringing skiing to Croatia. The event was prestigious and well planned: the whole caravan was stationed at the Westin Hotel, the best in town, and the rewards were outstanding. Pavlek is now thinking about organising a slalom race on the Sljeme, but much more funding will be needed in order to organise it as the slope itself and the pool, supplying the water for the artificial snow, must be enlarged. Who will pay for all this? Most likely the taxpayers but Zagreb and the FIS have extended the contract up to 2014. And if Ivica Kostelić stops competing, who will come to cheer?