BANGKOK (AP) — The head of the Association of National Olympic Committees says the first international beach games will likely be held in 2017.
Sheikh Ahmad Al-Fahad Al-Sabah and his executive council on Wednesday discussed planning for the games, which would be run by ANOC and SportAccord — an umbrella organization for Olympic and non-Olympic sports federations.
The sheikh says “‘we believe (2017) will be a good year to hold the first beach games” though no date or host city has been finalized.
The ANOC assembly is expected to approve the project on Friday.
Sheikh Ahmad said “many cities” have expressed interest in the event but ANOC first wants to shore up broadcasting and marketing plans before selecting a host.
Among sports events that could be included are beach versions of soccer, track and field, modern pentathlon, handball, American flag football, jet skiing and paragliding.
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