Siberia 'wins' the world record for bikini ski-ing

'The previous record for 'ski bikini parade' was set in Canada. At that time 250 riders came down the slope', said organisers. 

'To beat that record at least 251 riders needed to go down Green mountain at the same time - wearing a bikini or swim wear.'

And they did! Easily*. 

An exact count of participants is now being analysed by experts (good job!) but as one official said: 'The sun was like Thailand, the snow like in Austria, and the party like in Ibiza!'

'The weather in Sheregesh in April is always very good', said businessman Alexey Kamerzanov, 35. 'Here you have very bright sun and good snow cover, so you can both ski and sunbathe in the spring.

'Two years ago, it inspired us to film the video 'Verrry hot day in Sheregesh. The video has become very popular and gained millions of hits'. 

As a result, organisers decided to stage the world's largest downhill ride in swim suits. 

'We were very worried about the weather. For the last two weeks, we constantly checked the forecasts. But in the end everything worked out. Right now, we can say that around 500, plus about 200 people who did not have time to register, took part in the ride. 

'As a result we had about 700 people. We had a great day'.

Anna Netesova, manager of creative bureau Engiro, said: 'We tried to do everything to formalise the record. All participants registered, left their passport data and telephone numbers. There are video recordings from different angles so one can count and check with the registration form.'

Organisers expected 400 at the most - in fact 700 arrived on the piste to make the record attempt. 

'I learned about the event from friends and decided to take part, not even for the sake of the record,' said Elizaveta Shchetinina, 24, from Kemerovo.

'The ride itself was so interesting - so many people at the same time ride downhill in swim wear.  I couldn't miss it! 

'It was fun! I hope it encourages people to come to Siberia. We are always happy to see foreign visitors.

'As you see, it's very beautiful here. Think of Austria and the Alps, then try Siberia.'

'It felt great', said Maria Kostrova, 21, from Tomsk.

'An unforgettable experience', said friend Leda Kovalchuk, 22. 

Sergey, 25, from Moscow, who completed the run with Maria, 24, from Barnaul in Siberia, insisted that it should be a national effort to beat the record. 

And it was  - with boarders and skiers from all over Russia. 

'I'm an experienced skier, and try to come to this resort a couple of times a year,' explained Maria, 22, from Kemerovo. 

'I learned about the event through the 'Vkontakte' social network and decided that it is necessary to participate. 

'It was great fun, really cool'.

*Siberian are awaiting confirmation from the Guiness World Records bikini ski boffins. Watch them enjoying the sun!