As of 12 August, 42 countries have confirmed their participation in the 5^th Asian Beach Games (ABG) which is slated for 24 September-3 October in Da Nang.

Illustrative image (Source: VNA)

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

The organisers said it had already 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, Viet Nam, 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 Indonesia's Bali City, and has been held every two years since then.

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/ Da Nang Today)