Cesana (pps) The tribute to Jan Steler (Poland/France) was the emotional highlight of the 53rd Congress of the International Luge Federation (FIL) in Cesana/Italy. FIL President Josef Fendt from Berchtesgaden, Germany, awarded the Vice-President for International Affairs, who is looking back onto 50 years of commitment as an official, with a golden watch as well as a beautiful certificate. The national federations of Poland, Russia, Ukraine and Latvia also thanked Steler for his commitment of many years, and handed honorable awards over to him. Afterwards, interesting insight into Steler’s multifaceted life was provided in a talk show.

The organizers of the 2006 Olympic Winter Games in Turin with Sports Manager Ivo Ferriani on top, seized the opportunity to present the Olympic venue in Cesana-Pariol to the delegates from 30 member countries. Besides, the organizers of the 2010 Olympic Winter Games in Vancouver (Canada), the 2006 European Championships artificial track in Winterberg as well as the 2006 European Championships on natural track in Umhausen (Austria), reported on the preparations for their events.

After a few years of absence, Australia returned to the fold of the FIL family.