ALL TOGETHER NOW:
A 30-man long boat preliminary race, one of the categories of the DBKU Regatta BandarayaKU 2013, in progress at the Kuching Waterfront. Seventy-nine entries in nine categories are received for the regatta. Apart from the 30-paddler category there are also 20, 15 and 10-man long boat races. The finals will start at 2.30pm today.
KUCHING: The DBKU Regatta BandarayaKU 2013 received an overwhelming response, attracting a total of 79 entries in nine categories.
Taking place at the Kuching Waterfront esplanade here, seven teams took part in the 30, 20, 15 and 10 paddlers longboat races featured for the first time.
The special 6.5 horsepower pump ski race also attracted good response with 14 participants from 10 teams. The usually quiet esplanade was abuzz with life, as nearly 1,000 people thronged the esplanade to watch the regatta.
The finals for all longboat events are scheduled to take place today from 2.30pm.
A total of RM42,000 in prize money is on offer for this regatta. Azman Global Development Holdings Sdn Bhd is the coorganiser and main sponsor of the event along with Kuching North City Commission (DBKU).
“The main objective of the Regatta BandarayaKU 2013 is to become a platform to promote activities that strengthen public relations and build network amongst the Kuching society regardless of social status or occupations.
“It is also to provide an opportunity for statutory bodies, corporate sectors and NGOs to gain knowledge and experience in order to be equipped and well prepared to serve the public when entrusted upon,” the council said.
DBKU also sees its annual regatta as a platform to strengthen communication and interaction among participating individuals and organisations, in addition to promoting the state’s tourism sector.
Assistant Tourism Minister Datuk Talib Zulpilip officiated at the launching of the regatta yesterday which saw preliminary rounds taking place in all events. Among those present at the opening were DBKU Mayor Datuk Abang Wahap Abang Julai, Pantai Damai assemblyman Dr Abdul Rahman Junaidi and Azman Global Development director Datuk Dr Azman Semaon.
After flagging off the first race of the day, Talib who is also Sarawak Economic Development Corporation (SEDC) chairman was brought to release some 15,000 fish fry into Sarawak River to replenish the river’s aquatic life.
Among other events held in conjunction with the regatta were a karaoke competition, traditional Malay drum and music performances, a K-Pop dance competition, an autoshow, a bike show and a flea market.
Tourism Minister Datuk Amar Abang Johari Tun Openg is expected to grace the closing and prize giving ceremony later today.