When thinking about the 2002 Winter Olympic Games, warm California sun and crashing surf don't automatically pop into mind. So when the Swedish Ski Association contacted The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel to inquire about accommodations, reservation agents were surprised to hear it was for training prior to the Games, not rest and relaxation afterwards. But as many Southern Californians know, surfing and snowboarding can be combined passions. And athletes will attest to variety in training as a key to success and an escape from boredom.

Five Olympians, Magnus Sterner, Markus Jonsson, Stefan Karlsson, Tomas Johansson and Anna Hellman, along with their coaches, will stay and train at The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel January 29 through February 3.

"I know it is a different way to get ready for the Olympics, but I think it is exactly what the riders need to relax and focus," stated Snowboard Head Coach Stefan Isaksson. "I've worked with these athletes for the past four years, and I know my riders. This is what they need after a tough season. If we're going to rock Salt Lake, The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel is the place we need to reload our batteries. I know they are going to enjoy the surfing and the beach just steps away, they're going to feel relaxed and a bit spoiled, enjoying good food and the luxurious environment. That's what I think will make them win the Olympic Gold."

* Magnus Sterner, 23, has emerged over the past two seasons as a star on the World Cup halfpipe circuit, currently the reigning FIS World Champion. When not finalizing his tricks for the Olympics, Sterner loves ice hockey and is a great cook.

* After starting the season with a second place finish in the World Cup premiere, Markus Jonsson suffered a knee injury, but has not given up hopes that sun and relaxation at The Ritz-Carlton will allow him a chance to mend and win a medal in Salt Lake.

* Stefan Karlsson, 21, finished second in the 2001 World Cup and is known for riding the halfpipe so high his coach has to look away. He is looking forward to the sun and beach, before fulfilling a childhood dream of competing in the Olympics.

* Tomas Johansson, 23, held the World Cup title in 1999-2000, but was plagued by injury last year. Recovered, his technical skills and amazing feel for the board When not snowboarding, Johansson enjoys fishing and is excited to bring his skateboard to California.

* Anna Hellman, 23, an Olympic veteran and the only woman competing for the Nordic kingdom, won three World Cup competitions last season. She has been riding for 10 years are rarely gets nervous, even when doing her favorite trick, the fakie 540.

Consistently ranked among the best resorts in the world, The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel offers a variety of recreational activities, award-winning dining and personalized service. Located halfway between Los Angeles and San Diego, the resort sits on a 150-foot bluff with panoramic white-water views of the Pacific Ocean and two-miles of sandy beach. For more information or reservations call 800-241-3333, the hotel directly at 949-240-2000, a travel professional or visit The Ritz-Carlton web site at www.ritzcarlton.com.