The world's largest biathlon competition in Östersund

From 7 to 11 March 2011, more than 1000 participants will be in Östersund to compete for the gold in the European foresters' competition in nordic skiing biathlon, EFNS.

The 2011 Östersund event will be the 43rd EFNS to be held. From the point of view of participants, it is the world's largest biathlon event and a major meeting place for Europe's forest industry. The last time Sweden hosted the EFNS was in 1986 in Falun.

In addition to the knock-out competitions at the 2008 World Championship stadium, the European foresters' competition in nordic skiing provides a great opportunity for Sweden to showcase its exotic countryside at its snow laden best.

"Sveaskog is proud to be a partner of Swedish biathlon, a sport which is rapidly increasing in popularity. For us, it is both natural and an honour to host the European foresters' competition in nordic skiing, EFNS. When colleagues from Europe's forest industries visit us here, we will promote both Sweden and its world-leading forestry industry. Such an event provides excellent opportunity for establishing new contacts and developing business partnerships," says Gunnar Olofsson, CEO of Sveaskog.

The event is expected to generate some 5000 guest nights. The organisers of the EFNS are Sveaskog, Östersund Municipality and Biathlon Events.