Indonesia chosen to host 2nd ANOC World Beach Games 2023
10 June 2022
The Southeast Asian nation of Indonesia has been announced as host of the next edition of the World Beach Games in 2023.
The multi-sport event featuring sand-based sports is organised by the Association of National Olympic Committees (ANOC) and will take place from 5 to 12 August 2023 on the island of Bali. It will be followed by the ANOC General Assembly from 13 to 15 August 2023.
“Bali has some of the most breathtaking beaches in the world, which will provide the ultimate backdrop for spectacular sporting competition in 2023,” said Acting ANOC President Robin Mitchell.
“We are thankful to the Indonesian government and the Indonesia Olympic Committee for their partnership and cooperation. We look forward to working with them over the next 15 months to deliver an unforgettable event.”
Bali hosted the first-ever Asian Beach Games in 2008, with Pakistan’s men and P. R. China’s women winning their respective beach handball competitions.
ANOC World Beach Games – Indonesia 2023 is the global competition’s second edition, following its debut in Qatar in October 2019.
Beach handball was one of the big success stories three years ago, captivating the crowds in Doha, which included International World Games Association (IWGA) President Jose Perurena Lopez. Brazil won gold in the men’s competition, while Denmark took gold in the women’s event.
Initially planned as a bi-annual event, the 2021 edition was postponed in August 2020 due to the global COVID-19 pandemic.
Last August, beach handball was confirmed as part of the core programme of sports at the ANOC World Beach Games until 2025.
“I am proud to see our sport among the core sports of the ANOC World Beach Games until 2025 – not only will this continue to bring fans entertaining and excitement handball action, it will also help the IHF’s efforts to grow and develop beach handball around the world,” said IHF President Dr. Hassan Moustafa at the time.
