PUERTO PRINCESA: The 2024 International Canoe Federation (ICF) Dragon Boat World Championships is set to make history as it brings together more than 1,500 paddlers from 26 countries in Puerto Princesa, Palawan from October 28 to November 4. This marks the first time a Southeast Asian country hosts this global event, which also serves as a qualifier for the World Games in Chengdu, China next year.
According to Philippines News Agency, powerhouse nations from Europe, including the Czech Republic, Hungary, Ukraine, and Russia, are confirmed participants. In Asia, China will join, along with India, Thailand, and Iran, sending sizable contingents. The Philippines will field 200 athletes who have been training in Puerto Princesa since late September, following preparatory sessions in Davao and Tanay, Rizal.
Philippine Canoe Kayak Dragonboat Federation (PCKDF) president Len Escollante expressed enthusiasm about hosting the event, highlighting the excitement among participants not only for the competition but also
for the attractions of Puerto Princesa and Palawan. Escollante noted the potential positive impact on local tourism.
The championships will feature races over distances of 200 meters, 500 meters, and 2,000 meters, with a total of 54 gold medals available. The Open national team division and Masters 40-plus each offer 18 gold medals, while nine golds each will be contested in the 50-plus and juniors categories for boys and girls.
Escollante also acknowledged the support of Puerto Princesa Mayor Lucilo Bayron and the Philippine Sports Commission. Reflecting on past success, he noted that the Philippines secured five golds, two silvers, and one bronze at the 2018 championships in Atlanta, Georgia. The upcoming event will surpass previous editions in scale, with 18 countries participating in 2018 and 16 in 2022.