THE SARAWAK Regatta, to be held in Kuching from September 15-18, will incorporate for the first time the 2011 International Waterski & Wakeboard Federation Sarawak Wakeboard World Cup from September 16-18.
Thirty representatives from at least 15 countries will compete in the international wakeboard competition, while the Stars of Florida Waterski Show Team will conduct water-based performances at the event.
Promoted by the Sarawak Tourism Board (STB), the regatta is expected to attract an audience of more than 100,000.
STB CEO, Rashid Khan, said: “I am confident that the Sarawak Regatta will boost the positive growth of tourist arrivals in Sarawak this year.”
“Total tourist arrivals for the first half of this year increased 18.5 per cent compared to the same period last year,” he added.
With its origin dating back to 1872, the regatta is held annually at the Kuching Waterfront on the Sarawak River. Open to local and international amateur paddlers, 104 teams comprising 2,128 paddlers have already confirmed their participation.
Other events to be held in conjunction with the regatta include a craft exhibition, a cultural show, and a trade and food fair.
By N. Nithiyananthan
