Asian Rafting Championships will be organised in Beas river in Kullu from September 16 with participation of 25 teams from the Asian nations, an official said on Saturday.
The event will be organised under the joint aegis of World Rafting Federation and Indian Rafting Association from September 16 to 25. The races will be conducted in both men and women categories. The race will start form Raison and end at Babeli with total length of the course about 20km.
Kullu deputy commissioner Ashutosh Garg said, “25 teams from Asian countries will participate in the event in both men and women categories. A team from Himachal will also compete in the event. We have started preparations in advance. A meeting in this regard was called on Saturday.”
The DC said the inaugural ceremony of the championships will be organised at Manali on September 16 and the closing ceremony will be held at Kullu on September 25. “More than 100 players will participate in the event. Different committees have been formed for effective and smooth conduct. It is matter of pride for Himachal to get opportunity to host this popular event in Kullu. It will help in tourism promotion,” he added.
Indian Rafting Association president Saukat Sikandar briefed in detailed the different aspects of the championship. He also discussed about lodging, meals and other facilities to the participants. He also said that 15 high quality rafts are being imported from France for the event.
River rafting and all other water sports are banned in Himachal following monsoon rains upto September 15. The ban is imposed every year after water level rises dangerously. As ban will be lifted on September 15, the championship will start from the next day.
Kullu is a renowned destination for adventure sports including river rafting. Many rafting competitions have been hosted here but it will be the first time that an international championship will be organised.
Comments