Thursday, June 09, 2011

Kuching to host Sarawak Wakeboard World Cup

KUCHING: Kuching has been chosen to host the 2011 Sarawak Wakeboard World Cup from Sept15-18 because the rivers here have been deemed clean and suitable for water sports.

The event, which will take place at Kuching Waterfront, will see participation from 17 countries and be broadcasted in at least 65 countries.

Tourism and Heritage Assistant Minister Datuk Talib Zulpilip appealed to the public not to throw garbage into the river to ensure it stays clean for water activities that began yesterday, as well as for the event ahead.

He was speaking after officiating at the Waterski and Wakeboard Training School, which operates from the Waterfront.

They will be training 12 young skiers nominated by the Sarawak Sports Council, as well as offering locals and tourists a chance to test their mettle on the water.

The activity is supported by Tourism and Heritage Ministry and Social Development and Urbanisation Ministry.

Talib himself gamely had a go on a set of waterskis behind the 370hp Mastercraft Pro Star 197 Tow Boat, delighting onlookers with two failed attempts and a triumphant few seconds skimming across the water in his successful third try.

International Waterski & Wakeboard Federation (IWWF) and World Cup organisers Waterski & Wakeboard World Cup Sdn Bhd delivered the boat to Kuching last week.

Among the waterski and wakeboard stars taking part in yesterday’s demonstration and testing were national chief coach and former SEA Games gold medalist Phillipa Yoong, as well as her 8-year-old half sister Aaliyah Yoong Hanifah, who is currently ranked in Asia’s top six in tricks in the open women division.

Also joining the ladies was wakeboard and jump coach from China, Shu Zhenyu, who was the 2008 Asian jump champion.

Commercial operations will start after a week of testing and training of Sarawak’s youths.

Continue reading (Incl. Pic) at: Kuching to host Sarawak Wakeboard World Cup
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