Photo Credit: Darka Sefcik Starnova
DRAHOVCE, Slovakia — Sept. 8, 2025 — The small village near Piešťany added a new landmark to the country’s sporting map on Monday. The Petra Vlhová Museum opened its doors, giving fans a chance to follow the Olympic champion’s career from childhood to her greatest victories.
The ceremony carried a warm yet formal tone. At 110 Hlavná St. in Drahovce, Petra Vlhová stood with her parents, team members, sponsors, partners and friends. Loyal fans also filled the space — the same people who had dreamed up the museum and worked to bring it to life. In addition, Miroslav Ledecký, who launched the project with Petra’s father, Igor, addressed the crowd:
“Two years ago, we saw a TV documentary about Alberto Tomba, and the dedication of his fans inspired us to create this museum.”
Petra, visibly touched, thanked everyone for their effort. As a result, she praised the project as proof of the strong support she feels from fans and loved ones.
“Thank you, Mirko, and thank you to all my fans and supporters who contributed to this. I truly appreciate it. You’ve created something unprecedented in Slovakia, something that belongs to all of you. From the bottom of my heart — thank you. I believe this place can inspire young people. It’s important for as many children as possible to do sports, and I hope that after seeing my journey documented here, some of them will try to follow in my footsteps — and I’ll always be happy to help them.”
To mark the occasion, she donated her signed helmet from the Beijing Olympics, where she won historic gold in slalom.
Meanwhile, Jozef Viskupič, governor of the Trnava region, joked: “Now the value of this museum has just doubled.”
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What the Museum Offers
The exhibition stretches across several themes. First, one section retraces Petra’s childhood and preparation before entering the World Cup circuit. Then, other rooms highlight her victories at the World Ski Championships and international competitions. Finally, a special Olympic section celebrates her historic gold from the 2022 Beijing Winter Games.
In addition, fans can explore dozens of trophies, photographs, memorabilia and bilingual stories. A lively fan club corner adds color, filled with props and flags that recall the unforgettable energy of World Cup grandstands.
Behind the Scenes
Earlier in the day, Petra gave a private tour before the official opening. While walking through the exhibition, she pointed to a large photo of Jasná and marked the exact spot where she injured her knee in January 2024. Consequently, that image now stands as one of the exhibition’s most personal details.
The event also brought lighter moments. For example, volunteers who built the museum devoured 180 liters of Miroslav’s goulash soup. In addition, some artifacts had sat for years in Igor Vlha’s workplace before finally reaching the museum’s glass cases.
Proud Parents
Later, Zuzana and Igor reminisced about career highlights and fun times with fans while touring the new space.
“I’m really grateful and proud that something like this exists. It’s truly special,” said Igor, wearing a fresh fan club T-shirt.
Meanwhile, Zuzana pointed to childhood photos of Petra, carefully chosen from family albums especially for the museum.
About the Author: Darka Sefcik Starnova
