VISITORS are set to have an exciting time at the Himalaya Sports Penang International Dragon Boat Regatta 2023 this Dec 2 and 3 at the Teluk Bahang Dam.
Penang Tourism and Creative Economy Committee chairman, who is also the organising chairman for the event, said there was an increase in the number of teams – from 63 teams last year to 82 teams this year.
“These teams include the participation from three new countries – Canada, New Zealand, and Vietnam.
“With about 1,800 participants, the event is a testament to the regatta’s growing international appeal,” Wong told a media conference at his office in Komtar today.
Wong said Malaysia, having the greatest number of teams, would be sending 34 teams to compete in various categories.
“Singapore will be sending 14 teams to compete, while China will be sending five.
“The others include the Philippines (four); Australia (four); Hong Kong (four); Chinese Taipei (three); United Kingdom (three); Brunei (three); and South Korea (two). Canada, Indonesia, Japan, New Zealand, Vietnam, and Thailand are sending one team each,” he said.
There are six race categories, namely, the Penang Premier Open, the International Premier Open, the International Premier Mix, the International Premier Women, the International Senior 40 Open, and the International Junior U24 Open.
In the six race categories, there are three events: the 400m Straight Course (common to all categories), the 400m Relay (for International Premier Open, International Premier Mix, and International Senior 40 Open), and Tug of War (for International Premier Open, International Premier Mix, and International Senior 40 Open).
Wong announced that the 400m Relay and Tug of War events are scheduled for Dec 2, running from 8am to 5pm. Additionally, the 400m Straight Course event will take place on Dec 3, with the same time frame of 8am to 5pm.
“The opening ceremony will be held from 10am to 11am on Dec 2.
“An exciting celebration party will be held for the participants at the Fort Cornwallis from 7.30pm to 10.30pm on Dec 3,” Wong added.
He also thanked the sponsors for their strong support.
“We thank Himalaya Sports for being the title sponsor this year. We also thank the Penang Water Supply Corporation (PBAPP) for being the venue sponsor, Mercure Penang Beach (official hotel), as well as EMICO and 100Plus,” Wong said before receiving a mock cheque from Himalaya Sports.
Also present were Himalaya Sports sales and marketing head Andrew Lim, PBAPP corporate affairs division head Joyce Lee, Mercure Penang Beach resort manager Gerard Chan, and EMICO e-commerce and marketing manager Vincent Tan.
Story by Christopher Tan
Pix by Darwina Mohd Daud