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>lawaccord >volleyball >technology The fight against FIVB focuses on the Andy Miah looks match-fixing 3 sport’s development 4 into the future

tuesday, may 28, 2013 Theyour guideDaily to the sportaccord convention www.sportaccordconvention.com @saconvention #SACon13

support: Hein Verbruggen cities can get social Chairman media lift A panel session focusing on how host cities can leverage social media to expand the reach of their events is one of the highlights of the City ready for Forum, which takes place this afternoon. Always a popular fixture during SportAccord Convention, the City Forum will tackle a number of essential issues in the event-hosting industry between 13:30 and 17:30 in ‘special’ the Press Briefing Room, Hall 8. At 16:00, a collection of the industry’s leading experts will attempt to unravel the secrets of social media, which continues to evolve at a rapid rate. The panel session will feature farewell Professor Andy Miah, the Director of the Creative Futures Institute at the ein Verbruggen Saint Petersburg celebrated its City, and everything I have seen the President of an International Verbruggen added that the University of the West of . praised “a special 310th birthday, said: “The event so far tells me that this will be an Federation and involved in ASOIF Convention has helped to bring IFs The Daily’s feature interview with host city” yesterday appears to be extremely well excellent week in Saint Petersburg.” and GAISF (now SportAccord), together – a broad strategy that he Miah (see full interview on p10), in as he started his final organised, and the support from Verbruggen said that the and you had to travel to all hopes his successor as SportAccord which he provides a glimpse into the week as Chairman the host city and country has unprecedented interest in this year’s corners of the world for meetings President will build upon. future of technology in sport, will Hof SportAccord Convention and been outstanding, from President SportAccord Convention, which at different times of the year. So “SportAccord Convention is a intrigue delegates who are ready to President of SportAccord. Vladimir Putin, Deputy Prime is being attended by about 2,400 increasing efficiency was one of tool that brings cohesion and co- consider what sport will look like in Verbruggen, who was the Minister , Minister delegates, including 300 members the reasons behind the decision to operation between IFs, and that is 50 years’ time. driving force behind the creation of Sport and the of the media, illustrates the growth establish SportAccord Convention. something that I hope my successor Joining Miah on today’s panel of SportAccord Convention more Governor of this wonderful city, of the event since the inaugural “However, as my background will continue, because the IFs session will be Lucian Boyer, the than a decade ago, told The Daily Georgy Poltavchenko.” edition in Madrid in 2003. was in marketing, I very quickly should do much more together. President and CEO of Havas Sports that Saint Petersburg represents “Saint Petersburg is one of those “If I’m honest, I’m a bit surprised saw that this was probably going “They already do co-operate in and Entertainment. the perfect destination for him cities that has something special by the success of SportAccord to be an interesting platform for some very important areas, as we On p9 of today’s edition of The to bid farewell – a decision that about it. It has a quality that is Convention,” Verbruggen said. stakeholders around the sport. have seen here at LawAccord, and Daily, Boyer outlines in his own was confirmed at last year’s event difficult to articulate. “It has become a very big and “We can look back with SportAccord Convention helps words why has become such a in Québec City in . “It was a great SportAccord important gathering. I think satisfaction as we put something on enormously in fostering such crucial market for sport. Sport Event Verbruggen, speaking on the day Convention last year in Québec back to 15 years ago when I was the market that was needed.” co-operation.” Continued on page 3 2 news

sportaccord IWGA welcomes convention saint petersburg

gold sponsors new members pplications from the important, and we want to export our Federation of International sport to the world.” (FIL), John Liljelund, the IFF’s Secretary International Floorball General, said: “We are very happy that Federation (IFF) and our application has been approved by the InternationalA Federation of Muaythai IF delegates. I’m sure we can contribute Amateur (IFMA) were approved by the to the success of the World Games.” IWGA’s Member Federations at the FIL Director of Development Tom Association’s General Assembly. Hayes added: “We are glad that we However, the application from the are now part of the community of the World Association of Kickboxing IWGA.” Organisations (WAKO) was not At the General Assembly, there were approved. also presentations from the next two “It is an important development to hosts of the World Games – Cali in have applications from three IFs accepted later this year, and Wroclaw in by our members,” IWGA President Ron four years’ time. Froehlich said. “We can now start moving Ana Lucia Tenorio, Secretary General Host City partners: forward with their new memberships. of the Cali Local Organising Committee, “On many occasions in the past there said ahead of the July 25 to August 4 have been IFs that have wanted to apply event: “We are getting ready, not just in for membership, but we have had to turn terms of the infrastructure, but all other them down. development: IWGA President Ron Froehlich at the Association’s General Assembly aspects too.” “However, we will continue to look Froehlich added: “It was very at new applications because we want to Games, as all of the IWGA’s sports must into the fold. “We feel very honoured important to hear from Cali, and our attract the best sports.” apply for a space on the programme of by being accepted by the IFs and we IF Members will have an opportunity Despite being approved as new the Association’s flagship event from the will promise to be a good Member,” the daily to speak with the organisers as they are Members, this does not necessarily mean 2017 edition in Wroclaw, . Dr Sakchchye Tapsuwan, President of The Daily is produced by Squires Media – going to be here in Saint Petersburg for that the sports will feature at the World The IWGA’s three new Member the IFMA, said. “I’m sure that we can Editorial Communications and Publishing Federations were delighted to be brought help the World Games to become more the whole week.” for the International Sporting Community – www.squiresmedia.com Editor: Rory Squires new arisf chief to ‘take things further’ Journalists: Phil Ascough, Daniel Kozin, Sports campaigning to join the Olympic Federations – is promised a determined against rival associations, by strengthening Elena Nikulicheva, Alyona Podvyazkina, Games are promised added impetus by and energetic approach by Chiulli, the co-operation within SportAccord Natalia Smolentseva, Simon Redfern, new ARISF President Raffaele Chiulli. President of the International where we want to be an active partner. Amanda Strenz, Peter Tenetko The ARISF Council elections, which Powerboating Union. We want to ensure full recognition of took place at SportAccord Convention, Chiulli told The Daily: “Much has been our sports by the National Olympic Do you have a story? Come and see also brought a new Vice President, accomplished but I cannot remember a Committees. us in person in the press area or email Fernando Aguerre, a new Secretary time when we have been faced with so “We want to make sure that the anti- [email protected] with your General in Riccardo Fraccari and three many challenges that touch the very soul doping rules and testing programmes will news. new Directors. of our institution. It is my pledge to work be adapted to the needs of the federations Outgoing President Jan Fransoo said it hard to make ARISF relevant to all its and that more training and education will was time for a change after his eight years stakeholders – International Federations, be available.” Do you want at the top. Sport Accord, the IOC and others.” Aguerre, President of the International to comment “One of our objectives is to ensure Chiulli has circulated his programme Surfing Association, and Fraccari, on anything at there is a fair process for federations to for the next four years to ARISF members. President of the International Baseball SportAccord get access to the ,” said “I want to ensure that ARIFS will be Federation, are joined on the ARISF Convention? Fransoo. “We have made major steps playing a key role in helping its member Council by Directors Keith Calkins Include the #SACon13 ‘hashtag’ on forward there but there is still a lot federations in their quest for inclusion in (President, International your Twitter post so we can pick up to be done and the new President has the Olympic programme and in finding a Federation), Harald Vervaecke (Secretary your thoughts and publish them in announced he will take things further.” way to add new sports,” he said. General, International Life Saving The Daily. ARISF – the Association of IOC “I will work to protect ARISF members Federation) and Molly Rhone (President, Recognised International Sports as worldwide governing bodies, also International Netball Federation). pledge: Raffaele Chiulli news 3 Social media is on agenda Continued from page 1 at the challenges facing host Anders Selling, the Managing Chief Executive Lars cities and how they can develop Director of the Vasaloppet event Lundov, who was interviewed in distinct cultural programmes to in , will explain how yesterday’s edition of The Daily, maximise local engagement. the oldest long distance cross- and International Masters Games A panel session featuring country ski race in the world is Association CEO Jens Holm, will Hazem Galal, a Partner at still able to pull in some 80,000 also participate in the session. SportAccord Convention Gold participants every year, while Dr Beatriz Garcia, the Head Partner PwC and the head of SportAccord Director General of Research at the University of the company’s Global Cities and Vincent Gaillard (the subject Liverpool’s Institute of Cultural Local Government Network, of the feature interview in The Capital, will set the tone by will discuss how events can align Daily on Thursday), will wrap opening the City Forum with themselves with the right host up the City Forum with a Case a Keynote Address looking city, and vice versa. Study on multi-sport events. vote will

aiawAccordd organisers are seekingpoli the help “It is rather like the dangerc of the icebergy that sank of the wider SportAccord Convention and the Titanic being below the waterline.” the public in the fight against match-fixing. But Townley added that while sport has a long The threat was likened by LawAccord history of self-regulation, the issue of match-fixing Chairman Steve Townley to the iceberg crosses the boundaries between self-governance and thatL sank the Titanic as he summarised this year’s public policy. gathering. He said: “Just as public policy intervenes to say Townley explained that delegates recognise match- that a tackle on the field has crossed the barrier into fixing as a problem which crosses boundaries and criminal law, so a decision taken by a match official which should therefore be addressed by sport, by that involves fixing a game should also make that governments and by the betting industry. official subject to the criminal law. To promote discussion and help to develop a legal “We need both private rules from sport and public strategy against match- rules from the criminal law fixing, LawAccord asked to tackle the issue. delegates to vote on “Sport must drive the propositions setting out agenda to outlaw match- possible procedures and fixing. policies. “It is closest to the risk Because of the importance that match-fixing will of the issue, LawAccord destroy sport if its outcome has also opened up the is predictable.” vote, enabling SportAccord But with sport lacking Convention delegates the human and financial and the public to view resources as well as the the proposals at http:// procedures to gather sportaccordconvention. evidence, Townley said the lawaccord: Speakers Ingrid Beutler and com/#P739 and submit answer is a global initiative. Pâquerette Girard-Zappelli add their input yesterday their opinions. “Such an approach needs to The propositions include making it an offence for be co-ordinated by a WADA-style body,” he said. “athletes, referees, officials etc” to bet on competitions “Sport must have, and create, the ability to pay within their sport even if they are not directly for the integrity services it needs from those who use involved. They ask whether sport should have the its product and should not be afraid to leverage its authority to investigate match-fixing without notifying position to safeguard the very future of sport. the police, whether an international agency should “The good guys in the betting industry must be be established to combat match-fixing and how such considered as stakeholders in the formulation of the work might be funded. outcome.” Townley said: “Probably nine out of 10 of those  To view the options and submit your vote involved in driving illegal betting will be outside the please visit: http://sportaccordconvention. purview of sports bodies. com/#P739 4 news up for challenge Azad Rahimov, the Minster Rahimov expects facility of Youth and Sports of the construction work for the Republic, has insisted Games to be completed in that Baku is up to the challenge about 18 months, with three of hosting the inaugural main competition venues being European Games in 2015 built and a further five being Rahimov told The Daily that revamped. Baku was determined to justify “The construction work the faith of Europe’s National being carried out at present Olympic Committees in a city in Baku will leave a legacy for that retains long-term ambitions future generations and sporting to host an Olympic Games. events,” he added. “It is the first time that “We hope the Games will the European continent will inspire our youth to participate host such a sporting event determined: Azad Rahimov in a variety of sports. and, of course, it is a huge “I think that the people who “Baku has already bid twice mission: Dr Ary S. Graça responsibility,” Rahimov told voted for Baku really believed for the 2016 and 2020 Summer The Daily. in us. In previous years we have Olympic Games, but at the “This format hasn’t been used hosted a lot of international moment I cannot say whether or before so all of us are extremely sporting events in wrestling, not Baku will be in the race for excited about how it will be in boxing, fencing and rhythmic 2024. 2015. gymnastics.” “The population of Baku “If the Games are successful, Both Olympic and non- really wants its city to host the will feature on volleyball there may be the second, third world’s most important sporting and fourth Games. the programme, with the likes event and they believe it would “If they aren’t successful, it of 3x3 basketball and beach change the face of the city, its could be the first and the last football taking place alongside infrastructure and the mindset of European Games. taekwondo and gymnastics. the people.” announces honda link Graça delighted by car giant deal he International Volleyball Federation’s implement them immediately, because they must be (FIVB) President, Dr Ary S. Graça, tested,” he added. unveiled a major new four-year partnership “But we must listen to what the public wants and deal with Japanese car manufacturer Honda we must listen to the players and supporters; we must during SportAccord Convention yesterday. listen to everybody. One thing we know for sure, we THonda will become the International Federation’s must change.” first official sponsor in the indoor, beach and grass A number of rule changes will be considered, volleyball category as part of the body’s new vision for according to Fernando Lima, the FIVB’s television modernising the sport. advisor, as the International Federation aims to make “This step represents a major milestone for the FIVB the sport easier for broadcast partners to schedule. and it is part of the new era for the International “There are a lot of airtime opportunities for volleyball Federation following the success of our sport at the to conquer, but in order to do that volleyball must When the World is Watching... London 2012 Olympic Games,” Graça said. become a more time controlled sport,” he said. Power Takes Centre Stage “Honda will help us to accomplish our mission to “So we are now discussing and will probably be ensure excellence in all aspects of the sport. passing rules this year that can help volleyball be more To know how we can make your event a “The FIVB is committed to constantly innovating time controlled.” success, visit us at Stand No. 24. our sport to make it more spectacular, entertaining and Graça emphasised the social aspect of the game, engaging for fans.” bringing examples from his native about a private Aggreko, Power Specialists in the Events Industry Graça drew on his experience as a former President of initiative to help children living in slums through Head Offices the Brazil Volleyball Confederation (CVB) to outline volleyball. Americas (USA) Europe, Middle East & Africa (UK) Asia Pacific () his ambitious vision for the sport by emphasising the “My experience in Brazil is that volleyball is a family T: +1 281 985 8200 T: +44 1543 476100 T: +65 6862 1501 need to highlight the entertainment factor of volleyball sport, and it gives opportunities for women all over the Aggreko operates from over 190 locations throughout the world. whilst nurturing links with the corporate sector in an world,” he said. For all global locations, please go to: www.aggreko.com/contact exciting future. The partnership is set to help promote both the sport “We are testing a lot of new ideas; we won’t and the automobile company.

Sport Accord Quarter Page Advert.indd 1 22/05/2013 11:45 news 5 sochi hosts Delegates are invited to attend a breakfast hosted by Sochi 2014, the Organising Committee for next year’s , at the Repin Lounge at Sokos Hotel Economic boost Vasilievskiy tomorrow (Wednesday). During the his year’s SportAccord the immediate effect of this influx is also a study showing that this good breakfast, Dmitry Chernyshenko, Sochi 2014’s Convention not only ‘We stepped back of business tourists will be to inject feeling is true.” President and CEO, will look ahead to the boosts sport and business around US$3.77 million in direct, local Gruman said the research resulted Games and provide an update on preparations. and asked how we relationships between the spending. from PwC wanting to make more than a The following day, on Thursday, Sochi 2014 will international delegates who In addition the city can expect to financial contribution in its support for unveil the medal designs for the Winter Games. could add value travelT to Saint Petersburg from the world benefit by another US$3.06 million SportAccord Convention. For more information and to book your place at over – it will also leave behind a notable to SportAccord of indirect spending during and after “We stepped back and asked how this event, please email: [email protected] lift in the host city’s economy. SportAccord Convention we could add value to SportAccord The international professional Convention’ The figures were presented at a joint Convention, the federations and the high services firm PwC – a Gold Partner of press conference by PwC Consulting individuals that take part, whether it’s SportAccord Convention – has revealed - Bob Gruman Leader Bob Gruman and Nis Hatt, the city or the organising committee,” The ’s (WCF) Olympic the results of a study which estimates Managing Director of SportAccord he said. Celebration Tour has received a substantial that the Convention will spur Saint The Convention runs from May 26-31 Convention. “From our general experience we set funding boost from a US charitable foundation. Petersburg’s funds by US$6.83 million. but some of the people involved arrived Hatt said: “We always had this feeling about putting together a methodology The Foundation for Global Sports Development Organisers of the Convention the previous week. Most of the delegates that the Convention would bring that looks at the impact on the city, has donated US$50,000 to help support the responded by confirming that the are staying in hotels around the city, additional revenue, additional spend different areas that capture the benefit WCF’s programme. Designed to capitalise on research supports what many people using local restaurants and taxis and into a city. from the city’s perspective.” the increased interest in the sport of curling already suspected, but that the spending in the city’s shops. “But we realised that we never had Gruman added that long-term benefits prior to, during and after the 2014 Olympic and confirmation is welcome news all round. During breaks in the Convention any, should we say, sound proof, that for Saint Petersburg will emerge as Paralympic Winter Games, the WCF’s Olympic At the heart of the investment is the proceedings, delegates are being this was the case. the worldwide connections formed at Celebration Tour is a series of instructional arrival of about 2,400 representatives encouraged to visit Saint Petersburg’s “For me it is nice to be able to actually the Convention create a more global sessions with curling Olympians intended to from the international sporting many cultural and tourist attractions document that what we are doing also network, promoting the city’s ability attract interest and promote curling within WCF community at the Lenexpo Exhibition and to take advantage of being here for has an impact on the city and it is no to host such high-profile, international Member Associations. Complex in central Saint Petersburg. the White Nights. According to PwC, longer just a good feeling, that there events.

28.5x30.5cm.indd 1 5/22/13 5:26 PM 6 around the convention Aquatic festival focus uoyed by the success of the 2012 London one of the pillars of the Olympic movement,” plans: Cornel Marculescu Olympics, the International Aquatics he said. ‘We would like Federation (FINA) is setting its sights on “New nations from developing aquatic countries to re-confirm the a hectic programme of global competition emerged in London, and we firmly believe that the to raise standards and participation in and trend will continue in Barcelona. The medals are now target of 3.5 billion outB of the water. distributed to a higher number of countries, proving Top of the bill this year is the 15th FINA World that the worldwide effort to promote and develop cumulative TV Championships in Barcelona from July 19 until August aquatics is fruitful.” viewers achieved 4, but even before that the Summer Universiade in Recent meetings in Barcelona left FINA convinced Kazan will help to shape preparations for the Russian that the city is poised to improve on its hugely in the past two city to host a new-look world event in two years. successful World Championships of 2003. Cornel Marculescu, Executive Director of FINA, “The venues are outstanding,” said Marculescu of editions of FINA’s told The Daily that an initial target is for Barcelona the Palau Sant Jordi for swimming and synchronised major event’ to match the 3.5 billion TV viewers achieved by the swimming, and the Municipal Pool where diving events World Championships at Rome in 2009 and Shanghai will take place against the spectacular backdrop of the in 2011. Longer term, next year’s World Swimming famous Sagrada Familia church. that support the World Championships will receive Federation and we believe the services that will be Championships in will be combined with the The Port of Barcelona, venue for the open water and a significant reduction in their tax obligations as provided to the National Federations, and to their FINA World Aquatics Convention, paving the way for high diving events, has unique advantages. a result of work by the Organising Committee in respective athletes and officials, will be absolutely Kazan to unveil a joint FINA World Championships “Thanks to its location, a significant number of creating a consortium to drive the national marketing outstanding.” and World Masters Championships. spectators will be able to follow these two competitions, programme. FINA’s return to Kazan in 2015 is expected to Marculescu explained that the innovations are driven thus creating a superb urban atmosphere,” said “We want to have the best FINA World attract up to 14,000 participants as the World by a move towards creating festivals of aquatics, and by Marculescu. Championships ever,” said Marculescu. “Moreover, Championships and the World Masters the confidence that was reinforced in London. Away from the poolside, host broadcaster TVE will we would like to re-confirm the target of 3.5 billion Championships deliver a compelling combination for “The 2012 Olympic Games reconfirmed that FINA is provide full HD coverage of all events and companies cumulative TV viewers achieved in the past two aquatic sports. editions of FINA’s major event and to create an “We have of course started our relationship with outstanding aquatic festival in Barcelona. Kazan, however the main work will actually begin “The city is indeed an iconic sporting metropolis and after the conclusion of the 2013 Universiade,” said we already know that a huge number of people not Marculescu. directly connected with aquatics will be in Barcelona to “Combining the events provides additional impact see the Championships.” to the Organising Committees and helps in creating The Universiade in Kazan from July 6-17 will kick- true aquatic festivals, where the sport performances are start preparations for the new concept of amalgamating combined with a unforgettable social experience. FINA’s properties to create annual global events. “Overall, this raises the profile of aquatics in a very Doha next year will see the FINA World Swimming complex sports market environment.” Championships organised jointly with the FINA The strength of the Russian relationship enables World Aquatics Convention. FINA to plan for Kazan with confidence. “The event will bring together the National Marculescu said: “Russia is a very important partner Federations with the business partners around our for FINA, not only for the organisation of Kazan aquatic sports,” said Marculescu. 2015, but also because of the vitality and quality of its “We are having very fruitful discussions with the athletes and to its tradition of welcoming successful Qatar Olympic Committee and Qatar National events in its immense territory.” #YourGameChanger powered by #YourGameChanger is to create spectator focused events also involving the country beyond the venue, par example in schools, companies, homes etc! Thomas Lund, Secretary General, World Federation

www.twitter.com/SportEventDK around the convention 7 FIBA welcome for NBA chief negre’s ambition International Basketball Federation (FIBA) nternational Hockey Federation new audiences via video-sharing website Secretary General Patrick Baumann has spoken (FIH) President Leandro Negre ‘The overall aim YouTube. of his desire to work with the new head of North believes that the creation of the new is to encourage “By making the Hockey World America’s National Basketball Association, Hockey World League will help to League open to the whole world and to continue to develop the burgeoning sport fulfil the governing body’s burning more countries to introducing more levels of entertainment worldwide. Idesire to broaden the reach of the sport. the aim is to encourage more countries NBA Deputy Commissioner Adam Silver will The FIH’s recently-launched league participate’ to participate in the game and more succeed David Stern as Commissioner of the will act as a qualifying event for the spectators to engage with the sport,” FIH organisation in February 2014. Baumann told Olympic Games and the Federation’s semi-finals and final. This summer, the Chief Executive Kelly Fairweather added. The Daily that he is keen to work with Silver for World Cup finals and will, for the first semi-finals will feature the world’s top Hockey clearly seems to have grabbed the good of basketball across the globe after a time ever, give any nation in the world eight men’s and women’s teams as they the imagination of the public. At the period of impressive growth over recent years. the opportunity to reach the major go head-to-head with the Round Two London 2012 Olympic Games, hockey “We have been fortunate to live an amazing events. qualifiers in a bid to reach the Hockey was third most popular sport in terms of era of growth under the leadership of (former “Our overarching ambition is to World Cup finals in the in ambition: FIH President Leandro Negre ticket sales. FIBA Secretary General Borislav Stankovic) and give more nations the opportunity to 2014. created by the league, Fiji, ranked “If we want to grow the game we David Stern,” Baumann told The Daily. participate in international competition In 2015, teams will be challenging 70th in the world, was given a dream have to respond to what fans want,” “That period is now coming to an end and encouraging many more people across for a place at the 2016 Rio de Janeiro match-up against hockey powerhouse Fairweather added. we look forward to working with the next NBA the world to be participating in hockey Olympic Games. , while the Bangladesh men’s “The FIH understands that sport is Commissioner, Adam Silver, in the same spirit.” as players, officials and spectators,” Negre Forty-six women’s teams and 59 men’s team overcame despite being just as much about entertainment as it “We have already had very positive and said. teams are taking part in the league’s ranked some 22 places lower than their is results. constructive discussions with him and we are all The league has been scheduled to run first season, and seven newcomers – the opponents. “We know fans want a fast paced, in full agreement that the potential for growth over four rounds spread across two years , Azerbaijan, and Fiji The use of new technology is also action packed style, and that they want of basketball worldwide is still extremely big and to coincide with the Olympic and World men’s teams plus the , Fiji enhancing the spectator experience, with to know more about the players they we can measure up to football if we work well Cup cycle. and women’s teams – made it the FIH having been an early adopter of follow, which is why we have put this together.” The first two rounds of the league will through to Round Two. the Video Umpire Review system, while front and centre of all promotional adopt round-robin formats before the To illustrate the new possibilities contests are regularly streamed live to activity.” THE POWER OF SPORTS. Cat® Entertainment Services provides Emmy Award- winning technical expertise to television broadcasts and hospitality venues for the world’s largest sporting events. With one of the largest power generation and temperature control equipment inventories in the industry, you can rest assured your events’ success is our only goal. From design to on-site management and operation to final equipment removal - no matter the location - we are there for you. PLEASE STOP BY AND VISIT US AT sTAND 57

United States Europe South America 866.769.3761 +353 86 255 4943 +55 11 2599 8395 es-cat.com 8 around the convention Catching up with... Fisal Al Mansoori Director of Public Relations and Marketing – the Qatar Olympic Committee

including: greater community participation in sports Fisal Al Mansoori explains how GRAND: The Arab Qatar is continuing to grow as a and physical activities; improved and integrated Games 2011 Opening planning for community and elite sports facilities; Ceremony at the Khalifa major player in the sports industry increased and improved sports talent development, Stadium at Aspire Zone management and performance. The Daily: Can you tell me about your “Examples of how these goals are being implemented organisation’s latest developments and projects? include the National Sport Day and the Schools Fisal Al Mansoori: “The Qatar Olympic Committee Olympic Programme. We are currently planning has been involved in a number of projects and for future infrastructure projects as part of the developments over the past year, hosting important masterplan which was recently revealed at the 2012 international sporting events such as the 2012 ASPIRE4SPORT Congress.” International Aquatics Federation (FINA) ARENA The Daily: What is the focus for the Qatar Olympic Swimming World Cup Series, the 2012 International Committee over the coming year or two? Volleyball Federation (FIVB) Volleyball Club World FAM: “Our main focus is preparing for the 2014 FINA Championships and the 2012 International Handball ARENA Swimming World Cup and the 2015 IHF The Daily: Qatar has seen considerable ‘We currently host many Federation (IHF) Handball Super Globe. Handball World Cup events as well as preparing bids investment and change in sport over the past “We have focused our goals on the 2011-16 Sports for hosting future sporting events. At the same time decade especially. What is the long-term sporting international and local Sector strategy which forms part of the Qatar National our focus is on preparing for the future developments goal or goals for Qatar? Vision. It is constituted by three main objectives that form part of the 2011-16 Sports Sector Strategy.” FAM: “One of the Qatar Olympic Committee’s main events and our aim is to objectives is developing the sports industry in Qatar in parallel to Qatar’s National Vision. We currently host increase that number’ many international, regional and local events and our aim is to increase that number in order to establish Qatar as one of the leading global sports hubs in the to increase the number sports facilities around Qatar world. On the other hand, QOC aims to develop the and provide facilities for our communities and youth in local sports scene by promoting sport through a ‘sport order to promote the key values of sport. for all’ approach and increasing the participation of “A number of projects, such as the Qatar Schools sport within all our communities.” Olympic Programme, have reported an outstanding The Daily: How important is it for Qatar to increase in participation over the past few years. The generate its own homegrown sporting stars in the Aspire Academy for sports excellence is another prime future, and what are the key initiatives in place to example of generating homegrown talent. Mutaz develop such stars? Barshim is one of those talents and managed to claim a bronze medal at the 2012 Olympics in the high jump.” FAM: “It is one of Qatar Olympic Committee’s key objectives. We have invested heavily in sports The Qatar Olympic Committee is a Silver infrastructure. The Al Farjan Playground projects aims Partner of SportAccord Convention. insights

“According to an Economic Impact Study carried out by PwC, hosting the 2013 SportAccord Convention will boost Saint Petersburg’s economy by an estimated $6.83 million and, perhaps more importantly, contribute to Saint Petersburg’s achievement of its longer-term development goals.” PwC is a Gold Partner of SportAccord Convention around the convention 9 invites all Malaysia’s growing international events market Focus on Russia is on the rise and has declared itself open for ur host city for the show at the Cultural Olympiad with business ahead of the ‘Visit Malaysia’ year of Lucien Boyer, President and Global CEO of SportAccord Convention the Red Rocks festival that showcased 2014. Spearheading the drive at SportAccord Havas Sports & Entertainment, tells The this year is often called top Russian musicians. Convention 2013 in Saint Petersburg is Malaysia Russia’s “Window into Daily why the time is ripe for brands to Sustainability and sport promotion are Major Events, a division of Malaysia’s Ministry Europe” and what a key to Sberbank’s strategy through events of Tourism and Culture. delve into the growing market of Russia… fittingO location, as all eyes will be on like the Green Marathon combining Malaysia Major Events has already supported Russia as it opens its doors to the world running and tree planting across 42 more than a dozen events since 2012, including opportunities ahead, Havas Sports & on their investment. We understood this for the greatest international sporting Russian cities. the Badminton World Federation (BWF) Entertainment has a dedicated team in from the results of our comprehensive events of the coming years. Looking ahead Sochi 2014 will be the Malaysian Open, the Future Music Festival Asia, Russia with the local expertise to channel study measuring the impact of London The Winter Olympics, less than a first time that a major sports event will and the Autobacs Super GT 2012 Series motor- the potential of these events. 2012 sponsorship: substantially stronger year away, is the big headliner. A truly be held outside Moscow, thereby opening racing event. Sponsors, international and domestic, brand image and purchase intent national project with the full support the rest of the country to the world. “We’re always on the look-out for fresh ideas play a crucial role in the organization, increases of up to 50% across a wide of the Russian government, Sochi 2014 Events like the Olympics have an and exciting sports events to bring to Malaysia,” ensuring that fans have an excellent range of official sponsors’ brands. has more frequently been compared to important impact domestically, likely Tony Nagamaiah, General Manager of Malaysia experience. It’s not surprising that The Coca-Cola the Summer Games due to its impact, to increase national pride by positively Major Events, told The Daily. Sochi 2014 in particular has been a Company, our client and a sponsor popularity and sponsor engagement. representing Russia on the world stage, According to SportAccord Convention Gold catalyst in the development of Russia’s known for its winning activations has As is typically the case with mega- and in turn creating value for sponsors Partner PwC, Asia represents the world’s fastest sports marketing industry as sponsors already started engaging fans around sporting events, Russia’s ambitious sports who stand to benefit from this warm growing regional market for sporting events. seek to connect with Russian consumers Sochi. The biggest fanfare will begin strategy has not been without its pitfalls. sentiment. At the heart of the region, Malaysia is keen to in meaningful, lasting ways that ensure when the Torch Relay goes live on Nevertheless, there is a big sense of With Russia’s decade of sport just explore opportunities in the sector. commercial value. The time is ripe for October 7th: our teams at Ignition will excitement around these events as they beginning and the countdown to Sochi “We managed to secure two major events brands to delve into this growing market. be organising the longest route ever represent many firsts for Russian citizens, underway, it’s exciting to be a part of from SportAccord Convention last year and this Already in the Game taken by the Torch: 65,000km and 2,900 and particularly a chance to join together these developments that will give Russian time we’ve received good leads we would like to Sponsors who start communicating towns. around the magic and power of sport. fans new experiences to share and be capitalise on,” Nagamaiah added. around their association with the Several domestic partners have also Considering such important Olympics early obtain the best return taken the right approach. Sberbank stole inspired. 10 interview tomorrow’s world of sporting technology Professor Andy Miah offers The Daily a peek into the future of technology in sport…

he relationship between the specific case,” Miah said. “What is considering new technology by ensuring sense in separating out able-bodied and technology and sport has ‘The category of changing, however, is that the category that innovations engage new generations disabled athletes, and we will need to not always been amicable. what we consider of what we consider to be technology is whilst not trampling on traditions and find a way to allow them to compete in Even now, numerous sports getting more blurry. alienating long-term followers. the same events. This will be the biggest administrators appear wary to be technology is “Sports have a schizophrenic “The main challenges are in trying to transformation to sports in the next 50 ofT stepping outside a sport’s comfort relationship to technology. Let’s face negotiate the valued historical constants years. zone and into the unknown. getting more blurry’ it, most sports are technological in their sport while trying to remain “Secondly, we can expect to see a However, for Professor Andy Miah, experiences. The moment a running shoe relevant for a younger generation,” Miah tampering with human limits and exploring uncharted territories is an hits a track or a bat hits a ball, these are said. human dimensions. Prosthetic devices integral part of what makes sport such of human limits and technological technological encounters. “Do we innovate or stand still? I opt allow us to tamper with the proportions an intriguing breeding ground for possibilities took place was here. “The best athletes will talk about the for the former but it all has to be done of human physiology. This tampering technological innovations. “When you look at the history of way that the technological apparatus of responsibly and thoughtfully. will change what we regard to be normal Miah, a Director of the Creative sport technology and understand the key their game becomes indistinguishable “For instance, there are already tests in sport and in society more widely. Futures Institute at the University of the principles of design for from themselves. for performance genes available. You “Finally, we can expect to see a West of Scotland, started to delve into sport, you understand that technology “It’s here that we find the beauty of could use them to inform your choice collapse in the definition of doping. New the subject just over 10 years ago when tends to become a part of an athlete’s sport, in those complex technological about what sports you could be good performance-enhancing technologies will he found an interest in ‘transhumanism’ body and mind and an extension of relationships – an athlete becoming part at, but their reliability is limited. This is be safer, more like natural substances, – “a philosophical view that advocates themselves, such as a prosthetic device.” of the movement. why all new technology needs detailed and more diverse. Additionally, society’s human intervention to improve on our In spite of continuing reluctance from “There is always greater resistance understanding and research.” pursuit of endless longevity and health biology”. some sport administrators, Miah believes when the technology offers too much iah’s extensive experience in will mean that we all get doped along Miah told The Daily: “I met people there has been a gradual shift in the assistance to the people involved, whose this fast-moving area makes the way. Protecting athletes from this, who were trying to extend life, even live perception of human technology. For contribution, we believe, ought not be Mhim well placed to predict or imagining there is value in testing for forever, and a key way they were trying example, only a few years ago, the sight supplemented by a technological device. the future of technology in sport, modifications, will seem a bit pointless.” to do this was to understand how our of prosthetic ‘blades’ would have been Yet, even here, it’s clear that we are and his vision of the so-called ‘bionic Using Social Media To Maximise DNA functions and what might be done the cause of immense curiosity at an mostly comfortable with the principle of athlete’ – the subject of one of three Benefit (Today, 16:00-17:00) to slow down the ageing process. athletics event. However, nowadays they reinforcing our biology for the extreme conference sessions in which he features Super Human – Sport, and the “I was also deeply fascinated in barely draw a second glance. tests of sports, like running in shoes at SportAccord Convention (see bottom Athletes of the Future (Thursday, the relationship between sport and “I would love to believe that sports rather than in bare feet.” of article) – will fascinate delegates. 11:00-11:30) technology, as it seemed to me that are more willing to embrace technology Miah acknowledges that International “I predict three things,” Miah said. Brave New World – Bionic Sport of the one place where a real exploration but I think it always comes down to Federations have to strike a balance when “Firstly, we will grow to see there is no the Future (Thursday, 11:30-12:30) around the convention 11 Tweets of the day Demo Zone opens Kevin Carpenter @KevSportsLaw7m ne of SportAccord more about these sports, make sure you Credibility, transparency, accountability and Convention’s most ‘We are working closely with the eager come along to check out the action! legacy key for future safeguarding of integrity popular areas – the The Sports Demo Zone is being in sport #MatchFixing #SACon13 Sports Demo Zone – and motivated International Federations prepared by Connor Sport Court, the Jonny Murch @jonnymurch12m will start its three-day and host cities to put on some world’s leading supplier of floors and #SACon13 sports demo zone coming together scheduleO of events today. courts for sporting events. nicely The Badminton World Federation memorable displays this week in Saint Andrew Gettig, Connor Sport Court’s SportAccordConventn @saconvention4h (BWF) will kick off proceedings with a Vice-President of International Sales, told Think the @Eurosport Internet Lounge is 45-minute demonstration from 08:45 Petersburg’ - Johan Leschly The Daily that his company has installed going to be busy this week during #SACon13 before the International Aquatics courts at locations as diverse as the Great ITUTriathlon @worldtriathlon57m Federation (FINA) aims to cause a splash Operations Consultant Johan Leschly Federation (FIDE), the International Pyramids, the Eiffel Tower and the South No shame in a lil self promoting... stop on by from 10:00. said. “It will take place over three days Savate Federation (FISav) and the Pole. everyone! RT @saconvention: The The International Federation of and will provide a platform for a great International Paralympic Committee Gettig also told The Daily about @worldtriathlon exhibition stand is looking Muaythai Amateur (IFMA) will also display of a wide variety of disciplines. (IPC) will each have 45-minute slots. another project in , adding: great. #SACon13 feature in the Zone before lunch. In the “We are working closely with the On Thursday, the International Union “Just recently an NGO was funded and I Trust Sport @itrustsport2h afternoon, the International Fencing eager and motivated International of Modern Pentathlon will start the day they purchased 32 outdoor courts from Big week for sports governance: #FIFA Federation (FIE) will be in the Zone for Federations and host cities to put on before further presentations from the us. So in a country where there’s not a Congress and important meetings for the 45 minutes from 12:45, before the World some memorable displays this week in International Judo Federation (IJF), the whole lot of great news and where people Olympic Movement at #SACon13. Time to Baseball Softball Confederation (WBSC) Saint Petersburg.” 2013 World Combat Games, which will are facing all kinds of challenges, they seize the opportunity stages two separate demonstrations at On Wednesday, the World Minigolf have its second slot in the Sports Demo now have 32 new bright, beautiful places 14:00 and 15:15 to wrap up the first day. Sport Federation (WMF), the Zone in as many days, the International to play sport and that’s really excellent. Professor Andy Miah @andymiah4h “The International Federations have International Triathlon Union (ITU) and Aikido Federation (IAF) and the World “They started installing them two key message from LawAccord is that ethics been putting in a lot of work to provide the 2013 World Combat Games will be Karate Federation (WKF). months ago, so at least half should be is crucial to the sports industry to reach the a good show in the Sports Demo active in the Demo Zone in the morning. If you are a big fan of any of these installed now, and they’re going to order parts that law cannot #SAcon13 Zone,” SportAccord Convention Event In the afternoon, the World Chess sports, or you simply want to find out another eight.” 12 agenda today at a glance

All Day: SportAccord Convention Exhibition 09:00-11:30: City-to City (Press Briefing Room) On the ice 13:30-17:30: City Forum (Press Briefing Room) elegates will be treated to a during the breaks between official speeches. 13:35-14:00: Keynote Address: What’s Your Position? 14:00-15:00: Panel Session: The Right Fit – Matching Events With spectacular show from two These performances will be prepared by artists City Priorities of Russia’s world-famous from the Saint Petersburg State Children’s Ice 15:35-16:00: Event Watch: Sweden’s Vasaloppet figure skaters at the Opening Theatre.” 16:00-17:00: Panel Session: Using Social Media To Maximise Ceremony of SportAccord The opening ceremony will also include Benefit ConventionD this evening. welcoming speeches from Yuri Trutnev, 17:00-17:25: Case Study: A Quick Guide To Multi-Sport Events The unmissable event, which starts at 18:00 Assistant to President of the Russian Federation MEETINGS: in the Main Auditorium in Hall 8A, will Vladimir Putin, 08:00-12:00: AIMS Plenary Session (Meeting Room 2) provide a breathtaking prelude to two days of Dmitry Kozak, Governor of Saint Petersburg 09:00-12:00: ARISF Council Meeting (Meeting Room 1) top-level networking and conference sessions in Georgy Poltavchenko, International Olympic 09:00-17:00: ASOIF General Assembly (Conference Hall) Saint Petersburg. Committee President and 14:00-17:00: AIOWF General Assembly (Meeting Room 2) The show, entitled ‘Princess Anastasia’, SportAccord Convention Chairman Hein SPORTS DEMO ZONE: will tell the story of the life of the youngest Verbruggen. Badminton (BWF), Aquatics (FINA), Muaythai (IFMA), Fencing (FIE), daughter of Nikolas II. After the Opening Ceremony, all delegates Baseball/Softball (WBSC) “Two of Russia’s greatest figure skaters are welcome to go to the Sokos Hotel Palace will take part in the ‘Princess Anastasia’ Bridge, SportAccord Convention’s official ‘after SOCIAL 16:30-18:00: Exhibition Showcase cocktail (Exhibition Area) performance,” said ExpoForum’s Head of hours bar’, for drinks with fellow delegates. 18:00-20:00: SportAccord Convention Opening Ceremony (Main Protocol Sergey Samorukov, who has organised  Russian boxing legend Nikolai Valuev, Auditorium) the Opening Ceremony. who lives in Saint Petersburg, popped into 20:00: After Hours Drinks (Sokos Hotel Palace Bridge) “Irina Slutskaya, a two-time world champion the Lenexpo Exhibition Complex yesterday and a Winter Olympic Games silver medal- to check out sport’s number-one global MORNING EXERCISE SESSIONS (06:15): TODAY: Group 5km walk/Group run winner, and Elena Berezhnaya, who won a gathering. TOMORROW: Muaythai Boxercise Class, Group 5km walk/ gold medal at the 2002 Olympics, will be Delegates could hardly miss the arrival of Group run performing. the retired two-time world champion, who “There will also be some short performances stands at a towering 210cm. star: Nikolai Valuev at SportAccord Convention

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