Record field in world dragon boat meet

MANILA, Philippines — With six months left before the event, the International Canoe Federation Dragon Boat World Championships to be hosted by Puerto Princesa City is bound to surpass the previous editions in terms of participation.

This was announced by Philippine Canoe Kayak Federation president Leonora Escollante who said at least 20 countries have already confirmed their presence for the world-class meet slated Oct. 28 to Nov. 4.

The number is expected to even grow as the event draws nearer, and eclipse the last staging of the event in Racice in the Czech Republic two years ago.

“This early, we already surpassed the participation during the previous World Championships and more countries are anticipated to come over with the competition still six months away,’’ said Escollante.

“It’s an honor for Puerto Princesa to host an event of this magnitude. This is a significant challenge for us, but once we get started and achieve success, it means that organizing and hosting larger events will become much easier for us,’’ said Puerto Princesa City Mayor Lucilo Rodriguez Bayron.

Aside from the Philippines, top notch paddlers from Germany, Hungary, Sweden, France, the Czech Republic, Canada, Spain and the United States have confirmed their attendance. Paddlers from India, Taiwan, Singapore, Malaysia, Iran, Malaysia, Thailand, Macau, Hong Kong, Myanmar and Cambodia are likewise competing, overshadowing the 15 countries from the last edition.

An estimated 3,500 paddlers will see action in the event.

ICF president Thomas Konietzko recently made a successful site visit to Puerto Princesa, and was welcomed by the mayor.