Snowfest: Spirits run high on final day

Festival ends on happy note.

SWAT:

The “Ski and Smile Snow Festival” in Malam Jabba concluded on Saturday, renewing the enthusiasm of skiers and spectators alike and delivering on its promise to uplift spirits.

The popular ski resort considered a paradise by enthusiasts, was swarmed by some of the country’s best skiers for the week-long festival. Over 45 skiers including children and professionals took part in five major ski disciplines.

Bacha Hussain, winner of the Giant Slalom in which skiers ski between different sets of poles or gates, appeared to be satisfied with the arrangements of the tournament.

“If such events continue to take place here, it would undoubtedly attract international skiers once again,” he said.

“The resort offers some of the best snow slopes but it cannot capitalise on them because it lacks the requisite facilities.

The festival also offered an opportunity for young skiers to prove their mettle, often with nothing but hand-made wooden skis.

Eight year-old Zakir Hussain topped the children’s competition and told The Express Tribune he wished more activities like these were arranged to promote young talent.

The breathtaking spectacle of skiers racing down the slope and the picturesque valley attracted a large number of tourists to witness skiing events.

“The beauty of Malam Jabba is unparalleled and I would ask people across Pakistan to visit and enjoy it,” said Dr Minna Masood, who had come from Lahore specifically for the snow festival.

After the prize distribution ceremony, Peshawar Corps Commander Lt Gen. Khalid Rabbani, who was the chief guest, said he perceived the event not as a closing ceremony, but an opening ceremony, “because it would pave the way for many more festivals in Swat”.

At about 9,200 feet above sea level, Malam Jabba, apart from its scintillating beauty, also serves as a dreamland for skiers with 800 metres of ski domain.

Published in The Express Tribune, March 11^th, 2012.