The Europa Cup for Florists 2011 goes to: the Czech Republic!
At some moment this year 4 names were circulating of different countries as possible applicants for the Europa Cup 2011. It cannot entirely be compared to the procedure regarding the Olympic Games but also for national florist associations it is a great honor to be elected to organize the Europa Cup for Floral Design and they put many efforts in getting the nomination. On the other hand it is far from a sinecure to organize such a top-event in floristry and surely to collect the financial means to do it. It can hardly be done without the strong support of the town involved, of the organizers of a big fair in which it can be integrated or similar parties. Very important thus to seek this kind of support on beforehand.
Florint’s General Assembly decides about the place where the European competitions are to be organized. Two remaining countries presented their proposals as to the city and the place of the venue for the Europa Cup 2011 at this year’s assembly. Most certainly the idea behind the Italian proposal was very good: to combine the Europa Cup with the Euroflora 2011, a once every 5 year’s event, one of the biggest floral fairs in Europe with 600.000 international visitors and 800 “green” exhibitors for a period of 10 days. And Genoa, the town where the Euroflora takes place, no doubt is an appealing city, not to speak of it’s beautiful surroundings.
This proposal however couldn’t beat the very strong and appealing proposal of the Czech Association to organize the Europa Cup in September 2011 in the city of Havirov. All aspects were worked out in all details, including a sound budget that is being covered by a guarantee of the municipality of Havirov. The 4 persons delegation, including the vice-mayor and a representative of the ministry of culture, gave a clear and insightful presentation. There was a special booklet made with all info for all delegates, including a CD with the presentation and also various prospects and DVD’s of the town, region etc. Nothing was left to chance and seeing the fact that the delegates got satisfying answers to all, sometimes critical, questions this proposal won the preference of ultimately all delegates. The Czech proposal thus was accepted unanimously.
Havirov is a city of almost 100.000 in the eastern part of the Czech Republic, relatively young but well known as for its original architectural style. Connections are good, seeing the location in about Europe’s center and with the international airport of Ostrava at hand. It is a green city with a tradition of floral festivals. The facilities are excellent, thus the perspective of having a real top Europa Cup event in 2011 most certainly is there.
