The 2006 Guangzhou International Dragon Boating Invitational Tournament, sponsored by the Guangzhou Municipal Government, will take place on the section of the Pearl River between the Liberation Bridge and People's Bridge on the afternoon of Saturday, June 3. A total of 107 dragon boats from Germany, Australia, New Zealand, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, Hong Kong and Macau, as well as from districts and county-level cities in Guangzhou Municipality, will compete in the regatta.

    The local traffic authority will not impose special traffic restrictions on roads near the venue or reroute public buses, but the Public Security Bureau will deploy an adequate number of policemen to maintain order at the site.

    To facilitate the regatta, the municipal government has formed an organizing committee, with Vice Mayor Li Zhuobin acting as its director, Government Secretary-General Chen Guo as the general commander, and heads of related government agencies as vice general commanders.

    From 9 AM to 5 PM, June 3, the section of the Pearl River between the People's Bridge and Haizhu Bridge will be completely sealed off. Vessels in the vicinity are urged to follow the signals and instructions of guarding boats and steer clear of the tournament venue. Guangzhou maritime authorities will strengthen patrol around the venue and keep lifeboats, divers and paramedics ready for potential rescue operations.

Schedule of Major Events:

Noon to 2 PM – Qualifying Matches;

2:30 PM – Opening Ceremony;

2:45 PM – Finals.

Events:

600m Straight Course Race for Traditional Boats;

International Men's Standard-Dragon 600m Straight Course Race;

International Women's Standard-Dragon 600m Straight Course Race;

Collegiate Standard-Dragon 600m Straight Course Race;

Races for the "International Cup";

Races for the "Hong Kong Cup";

Festooned Boat Performance.