PRESIDENT MESIC DECORATES SKIER JANICA KOSTELIC

ZAGREB, April 2 (Hina) - Croatian President Stjepan Mesic bestowed on Monday high state decorations on Croatian skier Janica Kostelic, her father Ante and the head of the Croatian national ski team, Vedran Pavlek. Janica Kostelic was decorated with "The Order of Prince Branimir with Chain" for her extraordinary sport results and victory at the World Ski Cup, as well as for the promotion of Croatia and its sport. Ante Kostelic and Vedran Pavlek were decorated for their dedicated work on the development of Croatian sport and their contribution to the victory at the World Cup, as well as for their exemplary work with the Croatian national ski team. Kostelic and Pavlek were awarded "The Order of the Croatian Morning Star with the Image of Franjo Bucar" decorations. Congratulating on the decorations, President Mesic said the Kostelics and Pavlek proved that exceptional results could be achieved with much love, self-sacrifice and professional work. Ante Kostelic thanked the head of state on behalf of the awarded, particularly his daughter, saying he was proud to receive the decoration and acknowledgement of his country. (hina) rml