VietNamNet Bridge – As of August 12, 42 countries have confirmed their participation in the fifth Asian Beach Games (ABG) slated for September 24-October 3 in the central province of Da Nang.

These countries are expected to send more than 2,200 athletes to the event, the ABG’s organisation board announced on August 18.

The board said it has completed draft rules of 22 sports at the tournament, outlined scenarios of flag hoisting ceremonies of the participating countries and set up a press centre, among others.

Apart from preparing athletes for the games, Vietnam, as the host country, is stepping up efforts to train referees, disseminate competition rules and ensure security for the event.

Initiated by the Olympic Council of Asia, the first ABG took place in 2008 in Bali, Indonesia and has been held every two years since.

The East Sea Park, My Khe beach, Phuong Trang urban beach and Son Thuy seaside resort have been selected to be competition venues of this year’s event.

Source: VNA