The Daily - Issue 1 - Monday May 27, 2013

>inside 4 >on the rise

IIHF President René Fasel on Russia’s ‘endless potential’

11 >cycle of success CGF’s Hooper looks ahead to ‘best ever’ Commonwealth Games

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>sporting form

Dmitry Kozak explains the Russian Federation’s investment in sport

The Daily

monday, may 27, 2013

your guide to the saint petersburg sportaccord convention www.sportaccordconvention.com @saconvention #SACon13

Sporting world lands in Saint Petersburg

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he Russian Federation’s top officials have welcomed sport’s decision-makers for a week of top-level networking at SportAccord Convention in Saint Petersburg.

The 11th edition of sport’s most important annual gathering is getting underway in earnest with a series of General Assemblies and Annual Meetings today and tomorrow before the SportAccord Convention opening ceremony tomorrow evening kicks off two days of conference sessions.

“Today, Russia is actively preparing for major international sporting events such as the International University Sports Federation (FISU) Summer Universiade in Kazan, the 2014 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games in Sochi and the 2018 FIFA World Cup across the country,” Deputy Prime Minister Dmitry Kozak told The Daily (see full interview on p11).

“We strive to use the full potential of sport so as to improve the quality of life of citizens and to achieve long-term social stability.

Thanks to the decade of sport we have a unique historical opportunity to update Russia’s image and to demonstrate to the world the powerful resources she has for the benefit of all of humanity.

“In addition to infrastructural transformations, major sports events and

forums such as SportAccord Convention have a special role to play in promoting sport and a healthy lifestyle.

“This is necessary for promoting an active social life in the minds of young people and for the development of a national identity and the strengthening of international peace.

“This is why I am sure that the legacy of major sporting events will be long-term positive changes, which are the key to

sustainable development both of individual regions and the country as a whole.”

As highlighted by Kozak, global sport’s leading International Federations, organisations and executives are convening in a country that will become one of sport’s most important destinations over the next decade.

According to Russian Minister of Sport Vitaly Mutko, the arrival of SportAccord

Convention illustrates the country’s increasingly influential position in the international sporting landscape.

“I would like to welcome the guests and participants of SportAccord Convention,” Mutko told The Daily.

“The fact that our country is hosting such an important event shows the growing confidence of the international sports community in Russia.

“I am confident that the decisions taken in the course of the Convention will serve as the basis for the development of the dialogue between domestic and foreign experts and by doing so will serve to enhance the integrity of the international sports movement.”

Saint Petersburg, a city steeped in culture, will provide an ideal meeting place for sport’s stakeholders, according to Yuri Avdeev, Chairman of Saint Petersburg’s Committee for Physical Culture and Sport.

“Each year Saint Petersburg becomes more and more attractive not only for the hosting of important international sports forums, such as the SportAccord Convention, but also for major sporting events,” Avdeev told The Daily.

“Annually more than 60 international competitions, which include European and World Championships, take place in the northern capital of Russia.”

focus on matchfixing

International Federations, sports lawyers, legislators and policymakers will gather at the LawAccord International Convention this morning to debate the regulatory framework that is required to combat the threat of match-fixing in sport.

The Convention will start in earnest at 08.30 with welcome addresses from SportAccord President Hein Verbruggen and Steve Townley, Chair, LawAccord, before keynote speaker Dr. Declan Hill, author of ‘The Fix’, sets the scene.

“Match-fixing attacks the very foundations on which sport sits,” Townley told The Daily.

“The outcome of any sporting event must be unpredictable. A bet is not always on the final outcome as ‘in game’ betting has developed rapidly, but the most common types of bet are.

“Sporting bodies outside horseracing have themselves exhibited a number of different attitudes to betting. They can be curious, surprised, scared, in denial and possibly eager to obtain a share of the revenues that others appear to be earning from events that the sports body organises and pays for.”

Session one, which starts at 9am, will focus on ‘Sports Regulations: How to Protect Your Sport and Continued on page 2

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news

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Include the #SACon13 ‘hashtag’ on your Twitter post so we can pick up your thoughts and publish them in The Daily.

Saint Petersburg is set to sparkle S

ergey Voronkov, the Executive Director of ExpoForum, has welcomed SportAccord Convention delegates to the ‘conference capital of Russia’ ahead of a week of toplevel networking in Saint Petersburg.

Voronkov told The Daily that the Lenexpo Exhibition Complex, the destination for SportAccord Convention 2013, is the ideal venue for the world’s most influential sports convention.

“The Lenexpo exhibition complex is the only specialised exhibition area of the north-western region that is able to conduct major international conferences and exhibitions on various subjects,” he said.

“The Saint Petersburg International Economic Forum is annually held in Lenexpo pavilions and attracts both heads of state from around the world and leaders of major companies.

“Today it is obvious that Saint Petersburg has established itself as the conference capital of Russia: the number of foreign participants in Russian exhibitions is growing, as is the amount of both international exhibition brands and international congresses coming to Saint Petersburg, the northern capital of Russia. Co-operation with the SportAccord Convention clearly demonstrates that Saint Petersburg is of interest to the organisers of major international events.”

‘Co-operation with SportAccord Convention demonstrates that we are of interest to the organisers of major events’

welcome: Sergey Voronkov believes Saint Petersburg will impress delegates Much like Russia’s burgeoning decade of sport, the exhibition complex is also expanding to cater for increasing demand.

“Given the growing needs of Saint Petersburg in the development of congresses and exhibitions, the

ExpoForum company has ordered the construction of a new convention and exhibition centre,” Voronkov added.

“It will be ready to host events in different areas, from congresses and forums to sporting events, concerts and film screenings in the second quarter

of 2014. We would love to see the participants of SportAccord Convention in the new ExpoForum congress and exhibition centre.

“The ExpoForum company does not only provide the Lenexpo exhibition space – it also has a range of related services such as the design and construction of stands, logistics and transportation, catering support and advertising and travel services.

“When organising events in co-operation with our company, the client receives support in various areas throughout the whole event.

“By developing such related services, we follow the latest international trends of the convention and exhibition business.”

Voronkov is also delighted that SportAccord Convention is taking place at a time of the year when Saint Petersburg will be looking its sparkling best against the backdrop of the midnight sun.

“I wish all the participants of the SportAccord Convention fruitful work this week, and I’m sure they will take with them vivid impressions of the White Nights from their visit to Saint Petersburg,” he said.

lawaccord tackles global issues Continued from page 1 Deter Fixers’. The panel will feature former International Cricket Council (ICC) Chief Executive Haroon Lorgat, World Rowing Federation (FISA) President Professor Denis Oswald and Laila Mintas, the Head of Legal and International Development for FIFA’s Early Warning System.

Session two, from 10:40, will focus on the topic of ‘National and International Legislation:

Understanding Sports Fraud and Betting Regulations’.

Attendees will also have the opportunity to vote on a series of propositions so that opinion can be gauged on some of the key topics.

“Any reaction by sport needs to be interpreted against the structure and organisation of the betting industry,” Townley added.

“Betting is still illegal on certain sports and in certain markets. In some

jurisdictions betting is controlled by state organisations and funds spent on good causes. It has social implications which can fudge regulation around the issue.

“Digital media and the internet has transformed the ability and expectations to regulate and control the activity so even territories where it may be illegal it thrives.

“Sport operates on a global basis but laws are mostly territorial with

very different approaches to offences, defences, standards of proof and punishment.

“Sport has a regulatory advantage over domestic legislators in that it can impose rules and regulations globally that encompass those who administer the sport as well as those who participate on and off the field of play.”  The LawAccord International Convention: Today, 08:15 to midday (Press Briefing Room, Hall 8)

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governor: our city’s sporting culture

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proud sporting heritage coupled with a commitment to future achievement make Saint Petersburg the ideal venue for SportAccord Convention 2013, according to the city’s Governor, Georgy Poltavchenko.

Government support is vital, and starts at the very top with the Russian President Vladimir Putin leading by example. And the evidence of major sporting events shows that people are responding.

“The year 2012 brought Saint Petersburg many bright victories,” Poltavchenko told The Daily.

“Our sportsmen performed well in both the Olympic and Paralympic games in London and in doing so they showed great skills, a strong will and a fighting spirit. We hope that in the upcoming Olympic Games in Sochi our sportsmen will again delight us all with excellent results.”

‘Sport strengthens people’s health, builds a strong character and develops a sense of responsibility’

The Governor highlighted his city’s strategy of encouraging sporting activity at an early age, and among people of all abilities.

“Undoubtedly, sport of the highest level is unachievable without the sport of the masses. The road to the heights of professional sportsmanship starts at an early age,” he said.

“The victories of our Paralympic athletes did not come at random. In our city all the conditions are created for people with disabilities to be able to play sport.”

Saint Petersburg is home to more than 80

sports schools which provide opportunities for over 80,000 children and adolescents under the guidance of nearly 3,000 teachers and coaches.

The city leaders continue a construction programme which has already delivered 400 stadiums next to schools. During 2012, 30 young athletes and 15 coaches received awards as part of a Government of Saint Petersburg scheme to encourage sporting excellence.

“Sport is not only about records and exceptional achievements,” said Poltavchenko.

“Sport strengthens people’s health, builds a strong character and develops a sense of responsibility, as well as the ability to overcome difficulties. All of these physical and moral qualities are very important to the younger generation. A lot of the children are seriously focused on high results, and we try in every way to promote this.”

Poltavchenko said the arrival of SportAccord Convention builds on Saint Petersburg’s status as the birthplace of the Russian Olympic movement, “It reinforces the image of Saint Petersburg as a major sports centre, a fact that is confirmed by a whole number of prestigious international competitions, both on a national and regional level, being held on the banks of the Neva River,” he said.

In 2012, the city hosted more than 100 major international and national competitions including the football

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tournament in memory of the first VicePresident of FIFA Valentin Granatkin, the Saint-Petersburg Open tennis tournament and the Russian Freestyle Wrestling Championship.

This year brings the Second World Martial Arts Games. In 2016 the International Ice Hockey Federation brings its World Championship, and two years later Saint Petersburg will host matches of the FIFA Football World Cup – including a semifinal.

“President Vladimir Putin highlights the importance of government support for sport of the masses and for professional sport,” he added. “The President pays special attention to issues of physical culture and sports.

“We will continue to build new stadiums and swimming pools, hockey, football and basketball courts. The sports geography of Saint Petersburg will continue to grow and expand.”

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news

Curling seeks Sochi boost World Curling Federation president Kate Caithness is targeting Russia as a key growth market for the sport as the Sochi 2014 Winter Olympic Games come into focus.

Caithness told The Daily that the Federation is committing time and resources into helping Russia to fulfil its potential as a curling country.

“More dedicated facilities are being built in Russia, and we had our World Junior Curling Championships and World Wheelchair Curling Championship in Sochi as test events for next year,” Caithness said.

“I’m very happy with how preparations are going for the Winter Olympics and Paralympics in Sochi, and it was very special for me to meet Russian President Vladimir Putin before the test events. He clearly knows a lot about sport and I understand had even thrown a couple of stones.

The sport is really growing in the country and you can see the progress that Russian teams are making. For example, the Russian men’s team qualified for the World Championships for the first time earlier this year and the Russian women’s team are the current European champions.”

Caithness added that she is anticipating an

explosion of interest in the sport in the wake of the 2014 Games, not just in Russia, but in a number of emerging markets for curling across the globe.

“Pre- and post-Sochi we are getting our members ready for this increase in interest,” Caithness said.

“Following the 2010 Vancouver Winter Olympics there was huge interest in our sport, and some of our members weren’t in a position to take advantage of it. We have since employed four new development officers who are working hard to support our members in developing markets for the sport.

“The Federation is in great shape, and it has been a big step forward to award the 2014 World Men’s Curling Championship to Beijing.

“It will be the first time that the Men’s World Championship will take place in the Pacific-Asia region, although we did stage the World Women’s Curling Championships in Japan in 2007 and South Korea in 2009.

“Our largest television audience ever was for the final of the 2009 World Women’s Curling Championship, which was seen by a cumulative audience of 59 million just in China!

“We are also focusing on developing the grassroots of the sport in China.”

iihf chief highlights russia’s ‘potential’ Fasel praises a country ‘on the rise’

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nternational Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF) President René Fasel has underlined the “endless potential” of the Russian market for his governing body, and the sports industry at large.

Russia will host the IIHF World Championships in 2016, and Fasel is relishing the opportunity to take his IF’s marquee tournament to the country just two years after the 2014 Winter Olympic Games in Sochi.

“The biggest country in the world is on the rise – economically, politically; but in particular, ever since the Sochi bid, it has reinvented itself as one of the world-leading forces in sports event hosting,” Fasel told The Daily.

“Russia is an experienced host for ice hockey events and we expect nothing less than a fantastic hockey festival in 2016 – even more so because it can be expected that many of the key Sochi 2014 hockey staff will join the World Championship Organising Committee and will further add to their expertise.”

The IIHF World Championship last visited Russia in 2007 when Moscow was the host city. However, in three years’ time, hosting duties will be shared between Moscow and Saint Petersburg, host of this year’s SportAccord Convention.

“Both cities are hockey hubs, have modern state-ofthe-art arenas, possess all needed infrastructure for a successful event and are mega-cities which will allow thousands of fans to be part of the Championship,” Fasel added.

The IIHF President acknowledged the success of ice hockey’s Kontinental Hockey League, which was formed in 2008, as having played a central role in stoking interest in the sport in Eastern Europe. Twenty-one of the league’s 28 teams come from Russia, with the remaining

participants hailing from neighbouring countries.

The IIHF also remains hopeful that plans for a joint European club competition can be revisited after the IF’s Champions Hockey League fell victim to the the global financial downturn after just one season in 2009.

“In view of the IIHF’s effort to launch a competitive European Club Championship, the KHL is an important factor which cannot be neglected,” Fasel added. “With the Russia winning three World Championship titles in the last five years, the interest in ice hockey from Russian fans, television, media and, most importantly, sponsors, is unparalleled.”

Looking ahead to the Sochi Winter Games, Fasel remains confident that a deal can be reached that will allow North America’s National Hockey League players the opportunity to take to the ice in Russia. Earlier this month, Fasel met representatives of the NHL, the NHL Players’ Association and the International Olympic Committee in Stockholm, Sweden, in a bid to broker a deal.

“We are working hard to put together the last pieces to ensure NHL players’ participation in Sochi,” Fasel said after the meeting. “We have some issues left, but I, as always, remain optimistic.”

The IIHF chief is also confident that the Sochi Olympics will put foundations in place for Russia’s burgeoning sports industry to take the next step.

“Russia is a competitive sports nation and I am convinced that many records will be broken at the 2014 Olympics,” he added. “In terms of finances, we see the investments Russia made in Sochi, not only for the Olympics, but also for building their first Formula 1 track, which will debut only a few months after the conclusion of the 2014 Games. It’s a strong HOPES: and clear message – the René Fasel sporting future is, and will continue to be, Russia.”

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A martial arts hotbed T

he 2013 SportAccord World Combat Games in Saint Petersburg will be staged in a hotbed for martial arts, according to Pavel Zhuravlev, the head of the event’s organising committee.

The second edition of the Games, following the inaugural event in the Chinese city of Beijing in 2010, will take place from October 18-26 in the host city of SportAccord Convention.

Zhuravlev, who is responsible for delivering the event, is convinced that SportAccord, the umbrella body for more than 100 international sporting organisations, has opted for the right city and country to develop the Games from the foundations set by Beijing three years ago.

“There are millions of people are involved in martial arts in Russia,” he told The Daily.

“Martial arts have become an integral part of the spiritual and physical development of young people as well.

“The choice of Saint Petersburg as the host city is no accident, as this is one of the

development: Pavel Zhuravlev world’s cultural centres.

“At the core of martial arts there are different traditions and heritages of many civilisations. That is why we believe it is the best host city for this event, as Saint

Petersburg is has a passion for sports and culture.

“According to our estimations, about 200,000 people will watch the action over the nine days in October.

“We would like to make the Games as open and accessible for everyone. We would like to see capacity crowds at every competition venue.

“One of our most important goals is to make the Games convenient for everyone, including athletes, coaches, spectators and the media. For that purpose, together with the city’s Government, we have developed the most efficient services for the event.”

Zhuravlev highlighted the importance of political support in staging such a significant event, with the Organising Committee led by Dmitry Kozak, the Deputy Prime Minister of the Russian Federation.

“Preparations are in full swing,” Zhuravlev added. “We have agreed on all issues related to arenas, logistics, locations and spectators.

“Another important task we accomplished

was the launch of our marketing programme, which can bring success to the event.

“Hosting the SportAccord World Combat Games in Russia is extremely important and a serious task, which is supported at the state level.

“SportAccord is making a great effort to ensure that the Games are successful.

We’re in constant communication with them regarding a broad range of issues, and International Federations are actively involved in that process.

“The International Federations’ desire to provide the best athletes for the competitions at the Games is very clear.”

One major difference this year in comparison with Beijing in 2010 is that the Games will feature two additional sports – savate and fencing. Zhuravlev is confident that more sports will help to boost ticket sales and, in turn, the atmosphere at the competition venues.

“The entry list and the number of

disciplines have increased,” Zhuravlev added.

“We are expecting more than 1,400 athletes to come and they will compete in 15 sports and a total of 38 disciplines.

“That is why it was important for us to start the ticket programme six months before the start of the event. Full stands are very important as they will bring the best out of the participants.”

SportAccord and the World Combat Games’ Directorate will hold a press conference later today in Hall 8 (2.30pm to 3.15pm) to provide the media with further information about preparations for the 2013 Games.

SportAccord President Hein Verbruggen and Peace & Sport President Joel Bouzou will speak at the press conference, alongside representatives of the Russian National Ministry of Sports and Ambassadors of the Games.

A cocktail reception will follow the press conference.

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around the convention Event Scotland ready for networking First Comers

showcasing: Paul Bush

Event Scotland’s Paul Bush is looking forward to a top week of networking at SportAccord Convention this week as the national agency aims to strengthen its impressive standing in the international sporting community.

Event Scotland, which is a Silver Partner of SportAccord Convention, has been a regular visitor to the event in previous years, and with a number of top events on the horizon in Scotland,

Bush is looking forward to engaging with the global industry in Saint Petersburg.

“SportAccord Convention is probably the most important event of the year for us in the industry,” Bush, Event Scotland Chief Operating Officer, told The Daily. “We always have at least 40 to 50 meetings planned for the week, and the organisers always put on such a great show. It was a great idea in the first

there’s no limit for australia

Ashley White explains how Australia is pushing its brand to the world

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t may be 13 years since the Sydney Olympics thrust Australia into the sporting spotlight like never before, but the Australian Trade Commission is determined to make sure the world has not forgotten about what the country has to offer.

As a Silver Partner of SportAccord Convention, the Commission is pushing its ‘Australia Unlimited’ brand to the international sporting community in Saint Petersburg this week, with the aim of emphasising the credentials of a nation that has a unique love of sport.

“Australia Unlimited is Australia’s nation brand, developed by the Australian Government’s Brand Australia programme,” the Commission’s Manager of Major Sporting Events, Ashley White, told The Daily.

“It builds on Australia’s traditional strengths – beautiful environment, unique lifestyle and friendly people – and positions and promotes Australia’s creative, commercial and intellectual credentials to a global audience.

“Australia has a genuine and distinguished track record of

‘Our major sporting event specialists are scattered around the world’ collaborating with host nations to help stage truly global sporting events, and helping fulfil nations’ objectives for hosting the event.

“While the major sporting events industry is not a high export earner for Australia in comparison to other industries, it is high profile and helps demonstrate our innovation and capability, which is the objective of Australia Unlimited.

“Australia has a proven track record across the range of sectors in the 10year major sporting events lifecycle ranging from bidding, planning and event staging services to operations and management, cultural and ceremonies, and venue design and construction.

“The Australia Unlimited brand helps position and showcases our expertise in the sector to a global audience.”

A total of 47 projects at the London 2012 Olympic Games involved

place to get the sporting world together for an annual event, and it’s grown ever since.

“We’re really keen, as ever, to speak to delegates, and we’re looking forward to getting started. It is about driving tourism across the country and increasing the exposure of Scotland. It is about showcasing Scotland to the rest of the world, and sport can be a driver for lots of things in the country.”

breakfast

If SportAccord Convention is a new experience for you this year, come along to a Kick-Off Presentation on Tuesday (tomorrow) morning from 08:00am to 08:15am in the Sports Demo Zone area of Hall 7 at the Lenexpo Exhibition Complex.

The presentation precedes a First Comers Breakfast in the SportAccord Convention cafe, where you will be able to meet other delegates who are making their first appearance at sport’s number-one global gathering.

There are more than 500 delegates making their first trip to SportAccord Convention this year, so you certainly won’t be alone!

moscow lands 3x3

projects: Ashley White of the Australian Trade Commission

Australian companies, with most of those firms having been involved at the Beijing 2008 Olympics and engaged for the Rio de Janeiro 2016 Games “Since Sydney 2000, Austrade has been leading a concerted whole-ofgovernment effort to connect leading Games decision makers with Australian leaders in Games’ development and delivery,” White added.

“We ran what was previously called the Business Club Australia programme – the Australian Government’s official networking programme around major international sporting events.

“Business Club Australia leveraged the excitement and international media attention around major sporting events to showcase Australian expertise and boost opportunities for our firms to build productive global business connections.

“The programme was the first of its kind in the world and was replicated by the UK, India, Canada, New Zealand and Scotland. It has since evolved into an even more targeted exercise with high-level Australia Unlimited brand positioning.”

White is looking forward to a week of networking at SportAccord Convention

in Saint Petersburg ahead of a busy period of major events coming to Australia.

“SportAccord Convention is the most important promotional fixture on the major sporting event calendar,” he added.

“Over 20 Australian major sporting event specialists have confirmed they will attend.

“Australia’s major sporting event specialists are scattered around the world working on events being held over the next decade. Conventions such as this are an excellent opportunity to bring them together and to get them to meet decision makers.

“Australia is hosting the Asian Football Confederation Asian Cup and the International Cricket Council (ICC) Cricket World Cup tournaments in 2015 as well as the Gold Coast 2018 Commonwealth Games, so it’s important that we are also aware of what other nations are doing and keep tabs on any emerging trends.

“We’re also managing the official business lounge for SportAccord Convention. It’s called ‘The Business Club presented by Australia Unlimited’, so please look us up.”

Moscow will host the 2014 International Basketball Federation (FIBA) 3x3 World Championships – the second edition of the International Federation’s showpiece event for the condensed form of the sport.

The tournament will be held over the course of five days during June 2014 and will follow a similar format to the inaugural Championships that took place in Athens, Greece in 2012.

There will be both men’s and women’s tournaments, as well as individual contests at the 2014 event. “The fact that such a big tournament will take place in our country will demonstrate we are capable of hosting events of the highest level,” Russian Basketball Federation president Alexander Krasnenkov said.

IWGA set for vote on IFs Member International Federations of the International World Games Association will today decide whether to grant membership to four separate applications from IFs. The Federation of International Lacrosse (FIL), the International Floorball Federation (IFF), the International Federation of Muaythai Amateur (IFMA) and the World Association of Kickboxing Organisations (WAKO) need a simple majority from the IWGA’s 33 member IFs to join the Association.

The next two hosts of the World Games, the IWGA’s flagship quadrennial event of the International World Games Association, will also make presentations at the Association’s Annual General Meeting at SportAccord Convention today. The Colombian city of Cali will host the 2013 Games from July 26 to August 4 before the Polish city of Wroclaw stages the 2017 edition.

around the convention

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Let’s change the game E

strategy: Sport Event Denmark’s Lars Lundov

vent organisers should not be afraid to explore new ways to take their competitions to the market, according to Lars Lundov, the Chief Executive of Sport Event Denmark.

As a Gold Partner of SportAccord Convention, Sport Event Denmark is using social media to find out what delegates believe are the industry’s ‘game-changers’ (see below for more information).

Lundov, who has a huge amount of experience in winning bids for – and hosting – international sporting events, has his own ideas about how stakeholders in the industry can become gamechangers.

“The key game-changers in the sports event-hosting industry today and in the future are the federations, cities and organisers that have the ability to develop their events in a way that makes sense to the athletes, officials and spectators and that have the courage to break up with

‘We make sure that transfer of knowledge is being preserved’ the conventional ways of staging events,” Lundov told The Daily. “As an example I would like to mention the trends of staging events in new epic surroundings or the trend of involving spectators in the promotion of the event.”

Sport Event Denmark was a relatively early adopter of social media as a vehicle to engage with the public, and the organisation is planning another campaign at SportAccord Convention to gauge the thoughts of delegates.

“Using the #YourGameChanger ‘hashtag’ on social media will help us to engage in discussions with participants on ideas and examples of initiatives that can be described as game-changers,”

#YourGameChanger

powered by

Sport Event Denmark, a Gold Partner of SportAccord Convention, is looking to hear from YOU on the ‘game-changing’ developments in the international sports industry.

If you have a game-changer that you would like to highlight to a wider audience, post a message on Twitter and include the #YourGameChanger ‘hashtag’ or visit Sport Event Denmark on Stand 96 to find out more about the initiative.

The Daily will be looking out for your game-changers on Twitter, and we will publish the most interesting ones every day!

Win top tickets from Qatar!

The Qatar Olympic Committee (QOC) is showing its support as a Silver Sponsor of SportAccord Convention by giving delegates the chance to win world championship sporting visits to the country.

Qatar will host the FINA World Swimming Championships (25m) in 2014 and the Men’s Handball World Championships in 2015.

The QOC is offering a package which includes tickets to the big events as well as travel and accommodation. QOC will provide economy class air travel from the winners’ homes to Doha, host city of the events, with accommodation for two nights in a five-star hotel plus airport transfers.

To enter the competition all delegates have to do is send their contact information and social media details to the QOC. Delegates can follow the official QOC Twitter account @qatar_olympic and also click the “like” button at www.facebook.com/qatarolympics They should then visit the QOC at stand 103, complete a form with their Twitter and Facebook details and staple it to their business card.

The two winners will be drawn on Friday, May 31, the last day of SportAccord Convention in Saint Petersburg, and the prizes will be awarded after a check of Twitter and Facebook.

Lundov added. “We will also present events staged or to be staged in Denmark that meet the criteria of being gamechangers and thus relating all our discussions to the fact that the area of major international sports events needs game-changers in order to be in the lead.

“For example, the 2014 IAAF World Half Marathon in Copenhagen will for the first time include a mass participation race with 25,000 entries. We only have 5,000 spaces left for international participants – the rest is sold out. This requires more resources but the return is much higher in terms of the promotion of the sport for the International Federation whilst also developing participation in sport in Denmark.”

Sport Event Denmark has been active in the industry for many years, and the government-funded agency remains fully focused on securing sport’s top international events, as long as they fit into an overall strategy.

“Our strategy and focus are actually

quite simple,” Lundov said. “We are looking for – and bidding for – a selection of major events in different sports and where our strategic focus in terms of international promotion, visitor spending and development of Danish sport can be fulfilled.

“Our event model is based on a very close co-operation with the event rights holder, the local organising committee and the host city.

“This means an active involvement all the way from the vital bidding process, to the careful event planning and marketing until the event is successfully delivered. This co-operation is always an essential part of the Danish bidding strategy. In Denmark we make sure that transfer of knowledge is being preserved for the benefit of future events.

“Finally but importantly, Sport Event Denmark also recognises the importance of adding value to an event and its owner and strives to do its utmost to exceed the expectations of all stakeholders.”

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around the convention

glasgow set for best games ever - hooper

Commonwealth Games Federation chief hails 2014 preparations

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lasgow is on course to stage the “best ever” edition of the Commonwealth Games when the event lands in the Scottish city next year, according to Commonwealth Games Federation (CGF) Chief Executive Mike Hooper.

With little over a year remaining until the action gets underway on July 23, 2014, Glasgow officials are now entering the final stretch in their efforts to host the showpiece event of the CGF, which is a Bronze Partner of SportAccord Convention.

Glasgow 2014 will follow New Delhi’s 2010 Commonwealth Games and Hooper has stated his confidence that the city will deliver a first-class event as the UK continues to enjoy the afterglow of the London 2012 Olympic Games.

“To date preparations have been progressing very well,” Hooper told The Daily. “Our Co-ordination Commission for the Games made its third visit to Glasgow last October and openly expressed its view that these Games presented opportunities for the best ever Games.

“A number of the venues are either completed or are nearing completion, and most of the venues will be open and in public use by the end of the third quarter of 2013.

“The infrastructure projects are being well managed by Glasgow City Council and the planning now being done by the Organising Committee to adapt venues for Games time use is well on track, so we’re extremely confident that Glasgow will deliver a successful Games. A strong legacy of the Games

preparations is the Games village development which is contributing positively to the regeneration work in the east end of the city.”

However, as with any major sporting event, Hooper is aware that Glasgow 2014 cannot afford complacency in the crucial final months of the build-up.

“Preparations are now focused on detailed planning and delivery of services across all client groups and importantly the procurement processes associated with this,” Hooper added.

“To ensure the successful delivery of the Games, it is important that the close collaborative relationships that have been formed between the Games partners in Scotland are sustained and nothing is left to chance.

“This collaboration encompasses key areas such as transport, security, logistics and workforce.”

The 2014 Games will mark the end of a long journey for Glasgow 2014 after it initially defeated a rival bid from the Nigerian city of Abuja to secure the hosting rights for the event in November 2007.

However, Hooper is adamant that the impact of the Games should extend beyond 2014.

“The Games must deliver for all constituent groups, not only providing an optimal environment for the Commonwealth’s athletes to achieve on the field of play but also to deliver against the hopes and aspirations arising from the Games for the people of Glasgow and Scotland,” Hooper added.

“By achieving, this Glasgow and Scotland will assist the Commonwealth Games movement as it looks ahead to host: British Olympic hero Sir Chris Hoy tests out the track at Glasgow’s velodrome potential hosts for future Games.”

Join SportAccord’s .sport efforts SportAccord, the umbrella organisation for more than 100 International Federations and sports organisations, has invited international sporting community stakeholders to lend their support to a push to secure a series of new generic toplevel domains (gTLDs) that will mark a fundamental shift for sport on the internet.

The Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN) is in the final steps of adding about 1,400 new gTLDs, including .SPORT and more than 50 other sport-related domains such as .BASKETBALL, .RUGBY, .SKI and .GOLF.

However, not all of these new gTLDs will be sponsored or endorsed by the corresponding International Federation, and SportAccord itself is in competition with two other applicants that are not related to sport for the .SPORT gTLD. The rival applicants have also applied for the .SPORTS gTLD. “Unlike SportAccord’s application, which will ensure that each IF acronym and sport will be reserved at the second level domain name for their use, the other applications, filed by speculative entities, provide no such safeguard, and will not

protect the new extension against improper usage around doping, betting and other areas,” SportAccord Digital Manager Pierre Germeau told The Daily.

“In the interest of the sports community, SportAccord, with the support of other community members, filed an objection against these applications. These objections are now pending and should be resolved in the upcoming months.”

SportAccord is interested in talking to anyone who has questions or concerns about the impact of ICANN’s new gTLDs. Contact: pierre.germeau@sportaccord.com

insights “PwC projects that sport market revenues in the BRIC countries will have risen at a compound annual growth rate of 4.5% over the five years to 2015, this compares to 6.8% for the MENA region and 3.7% globally over the same period.”

From PwC’s Changing the game: Outlook for the global sports market to 2015 published in December 2011

PwC is a Gold Partner of SportAccord Convention

9

around the convention IRB reveals event plans The International Rugby Board has unveiled plans for a major new rugby industry event later this year.

The inaugural IRB World Rugby Conference and Exhibition will take place from November 17-20 in Dublin, Republic of Ireland.

“The IRB World Rugby Conference and Exhibition will provide a unique environment for the global rugby community to share knowledge, network and develop relationships that will contribute to the continued growth and development of rugby worldwide,” IRB President Bernard Lapasset said.

IRB Chief Executive Brett Gosper added: “This event comes at a perfect time, just before Rugby World Cup 2015 and Rio 2016, to engage all stakeholders from around the world to work together to grow our sport.”

bwf elects new chief Denmark’s Poul-Erik Høyer was recently appointed as the new President of the Badminton World Federation.

Høyer, who won the men’s singles gold medal for Denmark at the 1996 Atlanta Olympic Games, overcame his only rival in the race, Indonesia’s Justian Suhandinata, by 145 votes to 120.

Høyer has succeeded South Korean Dr Kang Young Joong, who stepped down after eight years at the helm. The new President’s term will run for four years.

FIG enjoys 2013 meeting The 2013 International Gymnastics Federation (FIG) Council Meeting was hailed as a big success by the International Federation’s President Bruno Grandi.

A delegation of 60 officials convened at the ACC Liverpool complex in England for five days of meetings in March. “I was honoured to be a guest in Liverpool, a city that boasts a wealth of history,” Grandi said.

“The FIG feels at home in Great Britain, alongside its friends at British Gymnastics.

Gymnastics has a long history that is deeply rooted in British tradition and British Gymnastics is a pillar of the FIG through its dedication and expertise.

“London, Glasgow, Birmingham and now Liverpool are important stages in the relationship between international gymnastics and Great Britain.”

Catching up with...

philippe colin delavaud

Chief Executive of SportsHub Pte. Ltd. – the Singapore Sports Hub

Philippe Colin Delavaud discusses Singapore’s increasingly significant role in the industry The Daily: What does winning the Women’s Tennis Association Championships bid in a five-year deal, from 2014 to 2018, mean to Singapore and to the opening of the Singapore Sports Hub in April 2014?

Philippe Colin Delavaud: “This win puts the Singapore Sports Hub on the world map. We are all really excited and looking forward to bringing the WTA Championships to Singapore in 2014, along with many more world-class sporting events that will build public awareness as we approach opening day.”

The Daily: Being a sport, entertainment and lifestyle hub, what other sports and entertainment events are you looking to host?

PCD: “We are actively in talks with major international sports promoters and International Federations to bring a wide variety of events to the Singapore Sports Hub. Some of the key partners we have started conversations with are the International Aquatics Federation (FINA), the International Masters Games Association (IMGA), the International Rugby Board (IRB) and the International Cricket Council (ICC).

In addition to bringing world-class sporting events to the Sports Hub, we are finalising a calendar of community events for Singaporeans to participate in on a daily basis.”

The Daily: What is the lifestyle element that you’re trying to incorporate?

PCD: “The lifestyle component is an integral part of what we are hoping to achieve here. The community can come and enjoy new shopping, restaurant and learning experiences – from sport fashion, new dining concepts and interactive learning journeys at the sports library and museum – this innovative environment will cater to all interests of the public’s imagination. We are also proud to offer a multitude of community facilities to inspire healthy living by

‘Singapore is proud to set a new world standard’ showcase: Philippe Colin Delavaud hosting fitness corners, a running and cycling track, beach volleyball, basketball hard courts, lawn bowls, skate part, leisure water park, boating and a climbing wall for everyone to enjoy on a 24-seven basis.”

The Daily: What are the unique features that the Singapore Sports Hub will offer to event promoters, sponsors and partners?

PCD: “The Singapore Sports Hub will offer promoters a unique combination of spaces and venues to showcase world-class events, and give potential sponsors and partners the opportunity to invest in the future of Asia’s top sports, entertainment and lifestyle destination.”

The Daily: How many venues make up the Singapore Sports Hub, and what are they?

PCD: “The Singapore Sports Hub will have ten state-of-the-art facilities on offer

that include: The National Stadium, with a capacity of up to 55,000; the Singapore Indoor Stadium (12,000 capacity); the Aquatic Centre (6,000 capacity); Sports Arenas (capacities between 1,000 and 3,000); plus the Water Sports Centre, sports promenade, community facilities, a 41,000 square metre retail and waterfront area, a sports library and a sports museum – a dedicated space to showcase sport’s most recent developments as well as the history of sport.”

a place where people can come to play, watch and support their favourite events, sports and activities and where all types of local communities and associations will be welcome to host their projects.

The Singapore Sports Hub will offer world-class facilities in a safe, innovative and progressive environment. Singapore is a key tourist destination in Southeast Asia, and will be an easy place for people all over the region to gather for sports and entertainment events.”

The Daily: How is the Singapore Sports Hub different compared to other sporting arenas?

PCD: “The National Stadium will boast the largest free-spanning dome roof in the world. Unlike other stadiums around the world, after a concert or sporting event, the complex remains open around the clock for shopping, dining, exercise, community programmes, social gatherings and more.”

The Daily: With opening day fast approaching, what is the key message from the Singapore Sports Hub? PCD: “Locally, the role of the Singapore Sports Hub is to have something for everyone – a place where people can come play, watch and support their favourite events, sports and activities, and enable people to feel alive, energised and want to participate. Globally, Singapore is proud to set a new world standard in sports, entertainment, and lifestyle construction for a local community.”

The Daily: How much will it cost to build the Singapore Sports Hub? PCD: “The build contract is a total of SGD$1.334 billion (€818 million/ US$1.05 billion).”

The Daily: How will the Singapore Sports Hub give back to the community at home and further afield?

PCD: “This will be an environment that has something for everyone, every day –

 The Sports Hub consortium has a 25-year contract with the Singapore Sports Council to operate the Sports Hub. The Singapore Sports Council is a Bronze Partner of SportAccord Convention.  Check out the Singapore Sports Council on Stand 19

10

around the convention

Convention hails support

S

portAccord Convention Managing Director Nis Hatt believes the 2013 edition in Saint Petersburg has marked “another step up” for global sport’s number-one gathering, which is now in its 11th year.

Hatt told The Daily that support for the event from the very top of the Russian Federation had set SportAccord Convention up for a productive and successful week in Saint Petersburg.

“I want to extend my great personal appreciation and thanks to the city of Saint Petersburg and the Committee for Physical Culture and Sports,” Hatt said.

“From President Vladimir Putin to Deputy Prime Minister Dmitry Kozak to Minister of Sport Vitaly Mutko to everyone who has been the point of contact for us over here, the support has been much appreciated.

“That backing from the very top has filtered all the way down, and we have been

very well looked after every time we have been here. It has been a very pleasant and smooth process.”

This year’s SportAccord Convention is set to generate unprecedented interest, taking place in a city and country that has an undeniable passion for sport.

“What we are seeing here is yet more proof of how significant this event is, and how much it has grown over the years,” Hatt added.

“This year we have more of everything basically. We have more delegates – about 2,400 here in 2013 – as well as more

‘We are in a terrific city and I’m looking forward to a great week here in Saint Petersburg’

Québec ready to host more events Québec is building on the success of last year’s 10th SportAccord Convention and using it to gain momentum for future events of the same stature.

The Mayor of Québec, Regis Labeaume, said that his city is ready for more major sporting events and projects – and there are plenty of those coming up.

More than 60 sporting events are scheduled to take place this year in Québec, with many of them attracting international competitors, according to the official tourist site of the government of Québec.

“The fallout is palpable, as numerous organisations have approached Québec City for future events,” said Labeaume, who also added his advice to future destinations for successful hosting of SportAccord Convention.

“The destination has to stand out,” he said. “Using what makes it charming, different and interesting is a sure bet to distinguish it among other destinations.”

But Labeaume also warned that there is more to a successful SportAccord Convention than the city location, with skill and the event venue hugely important.

“The know-how and facilities also have to be of the highest quality in order to make a case for a destination,” he said.

exhibitors, and the programme for Saint Petersburg is more elaborate.

“We are also hitting the 400 mark in terms of the number of press members, which is actually a record for the Convention.”

SportAccord Convention has increasingly become the place for top sports organisations and International Federations to stage important annual meetings and schedule major announcements, and this year is no different.

The International Olympic Committee will decide which sport or sports will make the final shortlist for inclusion on the 2020 Olympic Games programme, while the bidding cities for the 2020 Summer Olympics will also make highly-anticipated presentations to delegates.

“There is so much going on here this week,” Hatt added.

“We are in a terrific city and I’m looking forward to a great week here in Saint Petersburg.”

appreciation: SportAccord Convention Managing Director Nis Hatt

sustainability matters in sport Event organisers need to start incorporating sustainability into their strategic plan from the earliest possible stage, according to Jo Danko, Managing Director of Urban Programmes at CH2M Hill.

Danko told The Daily that event rightsholders now acknowledge that the issue of sustainability is crucial – even in the bidding stage – and the issue must be prioritised by potential hosts if they are to make the most of a sporting event in the long term.

“Sustainability should be incorporated into the planning for an event from the moment a host country decides to compete for the right to host the event,” Danko said.

“Sustainability has become a key factor in the selection of hosts cities and countries for many of the major sporting events, and in some cases, it may be a key deciding factor.

“Setting out a clear vision for the impact of the event on the host community, from an environmental, social and economic

perspective, can help the bidding nation inspire confidence in the selection committee that their event will be in good hands.

“Once an event is awarded to a host nation then the sustainability vision must be integrated into everything that is to follow, from planning, design, construction, event overlay, operations and legacy.”

CH2M Hill, which is SportAccord Convention’s Official Sustainability and Legacy Partner, has huge experience in this area, and is working with the Organising Committee of the Rio de Janeiro 2016 Olympic Games.

Danko added that sporting events can boost a host’s economy in the long term, but only if the process is managed carefully from the outset.

“Hosting major events has the potential to be a catalyst for economic development and growth for a host city or country, and managing this growth in a sustainable way has become a crucial factor in the

overall success of a sporting event,” Danko said.

“In addition, hosting a major event draws a great deal of international attention to host cities and countries.

“Countries are using these events to highlight the positive aspects of their country to the world, and in many cases, re-defining the impression the world may have about their country.”

Danko highlighted positive examples of sustainability, with the wrap for the London 2012 Olympic Stadium going on to be used in Rio for a school activity centre and in Uganda for a training centre for former child soldiers.

“Sustainability has now also become a major global topic that is more easily understood by the general public,” Danko added.

“There is also more emphasis and scrutiny of the environmental and social impacts of business, including the event industry.”

interview

a safe pair of hands for sporting events

I

n an era of global financial turbulence, sports event rights-holders have found it increasingly tough in recent years to identify potential host countries that have escaped the economic gloom.

However, over recent years, the Russian Federation is one of the few countries to have bucked the trend of economic decline.

Dmitry Kozak, the country’s Deputy Prime Minister, is well aware of the importance of such stability.

“Significant financial investments are required to achieve the aims of the state policy of the Russian Federation in the sphere of physical culture and sport,” Kozak told The Daily.

“These aims are to increase the number of people actively involved in sports, to successfully perform at international sporting events and to prepare Russia for the hosting of high-level sports competition.

“Undoubtedly, the steady growth of the economy and the direct involvement of the state have allowed for the stable development of the social sphere, which includes Russian sport.

“The growth of the sports industry is mainly thanks to government funding and these expenses are seen as a profitable investment into the development of human potential.

“The most expensive part of the organisation of large-scale international competitions is the creation and modernisation of infrastructure – an integral part of the guarantees provided by the Government of the Russian Federation as part of bidding campaigns.

“Such obligations are carried out in an appropriate fashion in a timely manner and there are no economic risks.”

H

aving weathered the global financial storm, Russia has invested heavily in sport.

Kozak is overseeing preparations for the Sochi 2014 Winter Olympic and Paralympics, which will shine the international sporting spotlight on Russia like never before, and the country has committed an unprecedented level investment for the Olympic Movement to ensure the event is memorable.

“According to rough estimates, the total cost of the preparation and hosting of the Winter Olympic Games and Paralympic Games will be more than 1.5 trillion rubles,” he added.

“Most of these funds are spent directly on the development of the region. The Games have been a catalyst for significant positive change

in Sochi, the region and across the whole country. Thanks to the Games in the Krasnodar region, modern highways and railroads have been built along with energy networks, telecommunications and digital television technology.

“The region is transforming into a dynamic business centre, while at the same time attracting investment and creating new jobs.

“The social infrastructure of Sochi is being radically updated – schools, hospitals, museums and stadiums are all being repaired and a special environment for the disabled and for people with limited mobility is being created.

“Accessibility standards used in the city will become a universal model for the building industry in the whole of Russia and will be applied in other regions. Sochi also serves as an example for other Russian cities in its

‘I can assure you that all the members of the Olympic project are fully applying themselves so that the event will be of the very highest level’ use of environmentally-friendly construction standards, seeing as advanced environmental technologies are applied during the construction of facilities for the Games.

“The legacy of the 2014 Olympics will help turn Sochi into a world-class resort and into an international winter sports centre that will provide opportunities both for the training of Russian athletes and for the hosting of major competitions.”

In October, Jean-Claude Killy, Chairman of the International Olympic Committee Coordination Commission for Sochi 2014, thanked Kozak personally for an impressive acceleration in preparations for the Games.

However, Kozak acknowledges that broader political support from President Vladimir Putin and other top officials has been crucial.

“As you may know, the President of the Russian Federation Vladimir Putin is actively involved in the sporting life of the country

and majorly contributes to the development of sport,” Kozak added.

“It was his support that in many ways predetermined the success of Russia’s bids to host major international sporting events.

“Preparing for the Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games is a huge task, one that requires significant resources and unifies thousands of people. It is a great honour for Russia to host the Games in Sochi, and we thank the international sports community for its confidence in us.”

K

ozak and the Local Organising Committee, led by Dmitry Chernyshenko, are continuing to work closely with the International Olympic Committee and the International Paralympic Committee in the final months leading up to the event.

“We understand the responsibility that lies upon the organisers of this event and how important it is to fulfil the hopes of millions of Russians for such an important sports competition,” Kozak said.

“I would also like to add that the International Olympic Committee and International Paralympic Committee are supervising preparations for the event, and their experience is very valuable to us. I can assure you that all the members of the Olympic project are fully applying themselves so that the event will be of the very highest level. We have managed to create a unique team of likeminded people who are working together for the good of the country and of sport.”

With Sochi 2014 and the 2018 FIFA World Cup just two of a series of top events heading for Russia in the coming years, the country can look forward to a packed schedule of top action.

For Kozak, the role of sport in the future of the country is clear.

“In the modern world sport is becoming an increasingly prominent social and economic phenomenon,” he concluded. “We consider sport to be one of the key areas of development of human potential.”

11

Dmitry Kozak, the Russian Federation Deputy Prime Minister, tells The Daily about the importance of sport to the country...

aims: Dmitry Kozak

12 today at a glance 08:30-12:00 LawAccord Convention (Press

Briefing Room, Hall 8) Meetings 07:00-08:00 ARISF Council Meeting

(IFs Meeting Room) 08:30-12:00 IWGA General Annual Meeting

(Conference Auditorium) 14:00-17:00 ARISF General Assembly

(Conference Auditorium) 17:30-19:30 IMGA General Assembly

(Press Briefing Room) 19:30-20:00 IMGA Board of Governors

(Meeting Room 2) Social 20:00 19:00

ASOIF/AIOWF Dinner After Hours Drinks (Sokos Hotel Palace Bridge)

Morning Exercise Sessions (06:15) Today: Group 5km walk/Group Run Tomorrow: Group 5km walk/Group Run

Explore the city S

portAccord Convention delegates who are visiting Saint Petersburg for the first time have been urged to explore the northern capital of Russia – a city steeped in culture as well as sport.

A thriving hub of more than five million inhabitants, Saint Petersburg offers more than 50 theatres and opera houses and is one of the most highly-regarded cultural centres in the world.

The arrival of SportAccord Convention has coincided with the White Nights – a time of the year when daylight hours stretch late into the evening – giving delegates an ideal opportunity to view Saint Petersburg’s worldrenowned architecture and state-of-the-art sporting facilities in all their glory.

“I want to wish everyone an enjoyable stay in Saint Petersburg, and I am sure they will get a positive impression of their time in our wonderful city,” Governor of Saint Petersburg Georgy Poltavchenko told The Daily (see full interview on p3).

“Saint Petersburg is especially beautiful in the early summer, during the period of the White

Nights. I want to recommend that everyone should try to visit our modern sports facilities that have started operating over the last few years.

“For example, there is the Centre for Outdoor Swimming on Khlopina Street, the Pearl Rhythmic Gymnastics Centre and the Kometa Centre for Table Tennis. These are real sports palaces of the highest standards.”

An ideal way to see what Saint Petersburg has to offer is to pump up your energy levels at the start of each day by participating in SportAccord Convention’s Morning Exercise Programme.

All delegates, speakers, partners and

Morning Exercise Programme: Group Walk / Group Run, 06:3007:30, Monday to Friday – meet at 06:15 in lobbies of official SportAccord Convention hotels.

Muaythai Boxercise Class, 06:3007:30, Wednesday – buses from official SportAccord Convention hotels at 06:30.

exhibitors are invited to meet at 06:15 in the lobbies of the official SportAccord Convention hotels for either a 5km brisk group walk or a 5km group run past the city’s stunning sights.

The groups will set off at 06:30 from Monday (today) to Friday, and the exercise will be adaptable for runners of all levels.

On Wednesday, delegates can really kickstart their day with a Muaythai Boxercise Class hosted by the International Federation of Muaythai Amateur (IFMA) and Stephan Fox, a former world champion and reality television personality.

Buses will depart from each official SportAccord Convention hotel at 06:30 to take delegates to a riverboat docked on the Neva River for another fun and free workout in a spectacular setting.

Keep reading The Daily for more information about other social events planned this week.

However, from Monday to Thursday, the Sokos Hotel Palace Bridge, SportAccord Convention’s official ‘after hours’ bar, will be the place to unwind after a busy day of networking.

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