Explore Sweden To Host 2006 World Champs

Susan McKenzie / 19.05.2005

\"I chose Explore Sweden to host the race because of its reputation of a tough, professional event,\" AR World Series director Geoff Hunt says.

Mikael Nordstrom and Helena Lindstrom weren\'t the only race directors attending Explore Sweden. Geoff Hunt was there also. And he wasn\'t there to race.

\"I\'ve had a chance to get out on the course, do some great skiing,\" says Hunt. \"We\'re hosting the World Championships this year in my home, New Zealand, and I\'m happy to announce that we\'ve signed an agreement so that the following year, the race will take place in your home country, Sweden in 2006.\"

It was, in some respects, one of the worst kept secrets here in Sweden. Hunt spent much of the race shadowing Mikael Nordstrom (he was jokingly referred to as \"Mikael\'s assistant\" - a rather experienced assistant, really).

Kiwis will have home court advantage this November, when the 2005 ARWC takes place in the Buller region of the West Coast of the South Island in New Zealand. The Swedes, including first and second place teams Cross and Lundhags, will be able to return the favour the following year.