The second edition of the World Beach Games will be held in Bali from August 5-12, 2023. Over 1,200 athletes from 97 countries are scheduled to participate in the event.
Following the success of the first Association of National Olympic Committee (ANOC) World Beach Games in 2019, which was held in Doha, Qatar, the event is open to all National Olympic Committees. The competitions will provide an opportunity for athletes to compete in newly introduced competitions and connect with new fans.
Acting ANOC President Robin Mitchell said, “We are delighted to confirm Bali as the host of the second edition of the ANOC World Beach Games. Bali has some of the most breath-taking beaches in the world, which will provide the ultimate backdrop for spectacular sporting competition in 2023.
We are thankful to the Indonesian government and Indonesia Olympic Committee for their partnership and cooperation. We look forward to working with them over the next 15 months to deliver an unforgettable event.”
The event will feature various water and beach sports. It will feature core programs of ten different sports: Aquathlon, Beach Soccer, Beach Volleyball, Beach Tennis, Beach Waterpolo, Beach Wrestling, Individual Kata, Expression Kiteboarding and Open Water Swimming 5km – as well as additional disciplines proposed by the Organizing Committee.
Indonesia Olympic Committee President Raja Sapta Oktohari said: “We are proud to push and promote Indonesia on the global stage. In an historic time for the sporting revival of Indonesia, we are leveraging our investment in the 2018 Jakarta-Palembang Asian Games and ensuring a legacy of sustained sports development throughout the nation.
Secretary Gunilla Lindberg added: “Athletes, NOCs and International Federations have been eager to know where and when the next Games will take place and I have no doubt Bali will be a very popular choice. Part of what makes the ANOC World Beach Games so special is that it combines elite sport with the fun and lifestyle of beach culture.
ANOC is looking forward to building on the success of the first ANOC World Beach Games. Spain was atop the medal table in 2019 with seven gold medals, while Brazil came in second with five and Italy was third with six. Over 40 national Olympic Committees from various countries won medals at the event.