The International Canoe Federation enjoyed a successful site visit to the Philippines where the Dragon Boat World Championships will take place later this year.
ICF President Thomas Konietzko led a delegation to the Filipino city of Puerto Princesa where they were given an update on preparations and informed about the plans for the event.
Puerto Princesa will stage the ICF Dragon Boat World Championships from October 28 to November 4.
The city’s Lord Mayor Lucilo Bayron welcomed the ICF delegation that also included Dragon Boat Commission Chair Dr. Wai-Hung Luk.
Puerto Princesa is nicknamed “The City in a Forest" as it is famous for its breathtaking views and covers a large area with a lot of natural, cultural, and historical sites that local and international visitors can explore.
Mr Konietzko said he was impressed by Puerto Princesa’s mission to protect the natural environment.
“The Philippines is very proud to host this event,” said Mr Konietzko.
“The Lord Mayor told me that it was the biggest sporting event Puerto Princesa had ever held.
“The city is very clean and is a role model for the Philippines in protecting the environment.
“Dragon Boat is one of the most popular sports in the Philippines.
“We want to organise a very competitive World Championships and combine that with the cultural and natural experience as this is one of the most beautiful places in the world.”
The Philippines Canoe Kayak and Dragon Boat Federation and the Organising Committee, in conjunction with the ICF, is welcoming all the national Dragon Boat teams to participate over the 200m, 500m and 2000m distances.
Dr. Luk added: “I fully expect the beautiful city of Puerto Princesa to deliver a superb ICF Dragon Boat World Championships.
“It’s an event that is not to be missed and I am sure it will be a memorable experience for any team travelling here later this year.”
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