Picture Credit score: Darka Sefcik Starnova
DRAHOVCE, Slovakia — Sept. 8, 2025 — The small village close to Piešťany added a brand new landmark to the nation’s sporting map on Monday. The Petra Vlhová Museum opened its doorways, giving followers an opportunity to comply with the Olympic champion’s profession from childhood to her biggest victories.
The ceremony carried a heat but formal tone. At 110 Hlavná St. in Drahovce, Petra Vlhová stood together with her dad and mom, workforce members, sponsors, companions and buddies. Loyal followers additionally stuffed the house — the identical individuals who had dreamed up the museum and labored to deliver it to life. As well as, Miroslav Ledecký, who launched the venture with Petra’s father, Igor, addressed the gang:
“Two years in the past, we noticed a TV documentary about Alberto Tomba, and the dedication of his followers impressed us to create this museum.”
Petra, visibly touched, thanked everybody for his or her effort. Because of this, she praised the venture as proof of the sturdy assist she feels from followers and family members.
“Thanks, Mirko, and thanks to all my followers and supporters who contributed to this. I really recognize it. You’ve created one thing unprecedented in Slovakia, one thing that belongs to all of you. From the underside of my coronary heart — thanks. I consider this place can encourage younger individuals. It’s essential for as many kids as attainable to do sports activities, and I hope that after seeing my journey documented right here, a few of them will attempt to comply with in my footsteps — and I’ll at all times be pleased to assist them.”
To mark the event, she donated her signed helmet from the Beijing Olympics, the place she gained historic gold in slalom.
In the meantime, Jozef Viskupič, governor of the Trnava area, joked: “Now the worth of this museum has simply doubled.”
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What the Museum Provides
The exhibition stretches throughout a number of themes. First, one part retraces Petra’s childhood and preparation earlier than coming into the World Cup circuit. Then, different rooms spotlight her victories on the World Ski Championships and worldwide competitions. Lastly, a particular Olympic part celebrates her historic gold from the 2022 Beijing Winter Video games.
As well as, followers can discover dozens of trophies, images, memorabilia and bilingual tales. A energetic fan membership nook provides shade, stuffed with props and flags that recall the unforgettable vitality of World Cup grandstands.
Behind the Scenes
Earlier within the day, Petra gave a non-public tour earlier than the official opening. Whereas strolling via the exhibition, she pointed to a big photograph of Jasná and marked the precise spot the place she injured her knee in January 2024. Consequently, that picture now stands as one of many exhibition’s most private particulars.
The occasion additionally introduced lighter moments. For instance, volunteers who constructed the museum devoured 180 liters of Miroslav’s goulash soup. As well as, some artifacts had sat for years in Igor Vlha’s office earlier than lastly reaching the museum’s glass circumstances.
Proud Dad and mom
Later, Zuzana and Igor reminisced about profession highlights and enjoyable occasions with followers whereas touring the brand new house.
“I’m actually grateful and proud that one thing like this exists. It’s actually particular,” mentioned Igor, sporting a recent fan membership T-shirt.
In the meantime, Zuzana pointed to childhood pictures of Petra, rigorously chosen from household albums particularly for the museum.
