Message from the
Sapareva Banya Municipality Mayor

Sasho IVANOV, Dipl. Eng.

Dear Ladies and Gentlemen,

It is my greatest satisfaction that Sapareva Banya - the town of the hottest mineral water in continental Europe with its "Geyser Jet - 103?C" will host the First Balkan Mountain Running Championships.

Sapareva Banya is a small model of beautiful Bulgaria. The hand of the Creator has been generous - we have here the wild and unique landscape of Rila Mountain, the eminence of Kabul Peak and the crystal Seven Rila Lakes, attractive hiking trails, Panichiste resort with its modern hotels.

A rich cultural and historical heritage, a Neolithic settlement known as the "Kremenik", the antic "Germanea", medieval churches and monasteries, local traditions - customs, culture, folklore… all this is Sapareva Banya Municipality - beating in the frantic swirls of today's and tomorrow's rhythm.

Sport is an activity that connects and unifies people - let's use it to create a better and peaceful world.

I look forward to the start of the First Balkan Mountain Running Championships on the trail that's called "From the path of the life-giving water to the tears of Sun - the Seven Rila Lakes".

I would like to cordially greet the participants and most of all the athletes with a warm Welcome to Sapareva Banya nestled in Rila Mountain's bosom.

I wish success to everyone who will try their strength running the races. Let the bests win!