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Tuesday, 9 June 2015 00:05 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}
Club Bentota, an entity of the Mount Lavinia Hotel Group, was recently approved as an UIM-certified water sports centre by John Puddifoot, the UIM Commissioner and Chairman of UIM Popstars.
This approval was gained following the completion of the recent UIM Popstars program, organised by the Lanka Powerboat Association and hosted at Club Bentota.
With access to both the sea and river, Club Bentota was the perfect venue to host the UIM Popstar Training Program. Commenting on the location of the program, Puddifoot stated: “When Club Bentota was suggested I was asked to evaluate the suitability of the location and it immediately became apparent to me that this was a stunning location ideally suited to running water sports training and events of this nature. The immediate accessibility to both the protected waters of the beautiful river and the challenges of the open sea opposite provide the best possible opportunities for expanding and developing the sport.”
The water sports centre is one of the signature attractions of Club Bentota, which invites the guests to enjoy the outdoors, relax and rejuvenate away from the bustle of their daily lives.
It is the perfect getaway for those who are adventurous and seek a relaxed outing with their family. Its location in the Paradise Island creates the ideal setting for a holiday.
“We were pleased to host the UIM Popstar Training Program, which is a great initiation to uplift water sports in Sri Lanka,” said Club Bentota Resident Manager Ishani Senaratne.
“As the leading organisers, the Lanka Powerboat Association has brought much needed focus to water sports. Our animators were fortunate enough to undergo basic training which enables them to act as safety and rescue personnel at future international powerboat events in the region. The staff is equally excited about our prospects,” she added.
“Powerboat racing is also a family event. You find families travelling together to every venue where a race is conducted. Club Bentota, with its family-friendly environment including its outdoor and indoor play areas, a pool, beach and spa is no doubt the ideal location for families who follow the races to rest and relax,” Ishani added.
The UIM (Union Internationale Motonautique) is the international governing body of powerboating based in the principality of Monaco. It was founded in 1922 in Belgium as the Union Internationale du Yachting Automobile.
It has a membership of more than 50 national authorities across the world. The Lanka Powerboat Association, the registered body in Sri Lanka, and Club Bentota will be working closely for the next couple of years to enhance the quality of powerboat racing and gain international recognition by bringing races to Sri Lanka.
“I think that with the enthusiasm of the members of the Lanka Power Boat Association and the close co-operation of Club Bentota we are surely due to see some future world powerboat racing champions from Sri Lanka,” Puddifoot asserted.
