KPL
Laos will host the 17th World Bodybuilding Championships in Vientiane from Dec. 3 to 9, organizers said Wednesday.
More than 480 athletes and delegation members from 41 countries have confirmed their participation, Khamphaphaivanh Vongsay, Vice President and General Secretary of the Lao Bodybuilding Federation, said at a news conference in Vientiane Capital.
The championships are being organized by the Ministry of Education and Sports and the federation. Manothong Vongxay, deputy minister of industry and commerce and federation president, is chairing the organizing committee. Kingmano Phommahaxay, deputy minister of education and sports, is co-chair.
Organizers said preparations include meeting international standards for the venue and arranging accommodation, transport and safety for athletes and participants.
Laos plans to field 24 athletes, including five women, in 33 events: 21 men’s and 12 women’s. The team is targeting four gold medals, three silver and four bronze. A total of 150 medals — 50 gold, 50 silver and 50 bronze — will be awarded at the competition.
The federation said 24 public- and private-sector organizations had provided more than 1.31 billion kip in support, along with products valued at 674 million kip and US$35,500.
Khamphaphaivanh said hosting the event was an opportunity to promote Laos, tourism and the development of Lao sports internationally. He said organizing a world-class competition would require the joint effort of the federation, other organizations and the public.
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