Paddling News

This year's African Championships, which are also the Olympic Qualification for Africa, will be held at Masinga Dam (Kenya) from 24th to 27th January 2008. This year's African Championships, which are also the Olympic Qualification for Africa, will be held at Masinga Dam (Kenya) from 24th to 27th January 2008.

Organisers met recently with Mrs. Rachel Dzombo, the Permanent Secretary for the Ministry of Sports, who will open the Championships.

The Kenyan Government has assured the ICF that all persons involved in the Championships including athletes and officials will be completely safe during the Championships.

The airport, hotels and the venue are under police supervision.

The Championships are taking place in a relatively safe and calm region of Kenya.

The ICF agreed to proceed with the Championships after close collaboration with the Kenyan Canoe Federation and the African Canoe Association.

"The ICF is pleased that Kenya can host these important Championships and Olympic qualifiers at a time of political uncertainty.

"The Kenyan authorities have been thorough and accommodating in ensuring the safety of the participants.

"We look forward to a successful event" states Mr. Simon Toulson, ICF Secretary General.

Boats are being provided by the ICF for the competition and were shipped from Brazil to Kenya.

The Kenyan authorities have assured that the boats will be delivered safely and on time to the venue.

Moreover, an ICF Executive Committee meeting will take place in Nairobi from 23rd to 25th January 2008.

For more information visit: www.canoeicf.com
Article Source: coastweek.com