Anticipation is building for the International Canoe Federation Canoe Marathon World Cup in Bazhong, China.
Scheduled to take place from May 23 to 24, competition will be held at the Bacheng section of the Bahe River in Bazhou District of Bazhong City.
About 400 paddlers from more than 20 countries and regions are expected to participate including over 100 foreign athletes.
A press conference was held in Chengdu on March 27 where the organisers announced key details including the schedule, venue, participant scale and competition events as well as preparations for the tournament.
It will be the first time the ICF Canoe Marathon World Cup has been staged in Bazhong and will be run by the Water Sports Management Center of the General Administration of Sport of China, the Chinese Canoeing Association, the Sichuan Provincial Sports Bureau and the People's Government of Bazhong City.
Sichuan Water Sports Management Center, the Bazhong Municipal Bureau of Culture, Radio, Television, Sports and Tourism, and the People's Government of Bazhou District, Bazhong City are also playing key roles in the organisation of the event.
Taking the integration of sports, culture and tourism as a key initiative, Bazhong has been building up its city brand of "Poetic Landscapes, Red Bazhong" to growing renown.
As a National Civilized City, a National Demonstration Zone for Ecological Civilization Construction, and one of China's Top 10 Most Beautiful Cities, Bazhong boasts one UNESCO Global Geopark, one national 5A-level tourist attraction and 21 national 4A-level scenic spots.
Nurtured by mountains and rivers, and steeped in history, Bazhong is a picturesque landscape scroll and a cultural treasure trove.
Bazhong is aiming to gather popularity through the event, retain visitors with quality services, and sustain the buzz through industrial development.
The city will fully capitalize on the event's traffic, creating a new model of "Watching the Races, Exploring Bazhong and Enjoying Consumption", allowing visitors to have a great time and savour local delicacies while watching the competitions.
In addition, Bazhong is planning to leverage the opportunity of International Museum Day and China Tourism Day by connecting its scenic spots, commercial districts and cultural venues, launch discounts on combined tickets and special experience activities.
This will make the competition venue a showcase for Bazhong, effectively turning the popularity generated by the event into a tangible driving force for the development of the city’s tourism and consumption.
“We will provide professional and comprehensive event support, along with warm, welcoming city services, eagerly awaiting your arrival to experience the thrill of racing across the waves,” said Mayor of Bazhong City Gao Pengling.
“Embark on a journey that blends natural beauty with cultural charm and immerse yourself in the vibrant spirit and charm of beautiful Bazhong.”
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