For Immediate Release

May 20, 2009

Contact: Chris Pranskatis -Phone: 970.708.7359

Telluride, CO- Switzerland Tourism recently honored Ryder-Walker Alpine Adventures Guide and Outreach Coordinator, Chris Pranskatis, with the Goldflower Award at the 2009 Switzerland Travel Mart in Lucerne Switzerland.

The Goldflower Award honors Mr. Pranskatis for his “long lasting and ongoing passion for Switzerland, his outstanding support in promoting tourism to Switzerland, and his extraordinary achievements as a successful tour operator in the North American market.”

"I didn't even see this coming," said Pranskatis when asked about receiving the award."I was completely surprised." He added, "Switzerland has become a second home to me in many ways over the years, so I'm deeply honored and grateful to receive this award."

Switzerland Tourism awards the Goldflower every two years during their industry trade show, the Switzerland Travel Mart. This year’s travel mart took place in the lakeside city of Lucerne and welcomed travel industry professionals and tour operators from around the world.

Recipients of the Goldflower award also receive a new Bucherer watch as a celebratory gift from Bucherer, one of Switzerland's most notable watchmakers. The Goldflower Award is the highest honor that Switzerland Tourism bestows its partners from the North American Market.

Congratulations Chris.

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