NEWS RELEASE (#2020-02) | PDF version (127KB)
Since our last statement on the COVID-19 virus, the World Health Organisation (WHO) has declared the virus a pandemic and has now stated that the epicentre of the virus, outside of China, is now in Europe.
The World Club Crew Championship (CCWC) in Aix les Bains, France (24-30 August) and the European Nations Championship (ENC) in Kiev, Ukraine (15-19 July) now face an unprecedented period of uncertainty about whether the events can take place.
The situation is changing daily as governments around the world take various measures to contain the spread of the coronavirus.
The IDBF and European Dragon Boat Federation (EDBF) are both monitoring the rapidly changing situation very closely and its impact on our dragon boat community. Our thoughts are with those who have been affected and we thank all first responders and health workers who have been working tirelessly to keep the community safe.
The health and safety of everyone involved in these Championships is of paramount importance and both Federations are committed to making responsible decisions to ensure the welfare of everyone involved is looked after.
We also acknowledge that the preparation of many competitors and their training is now affected by the restrictions in different countries through the closure of sporting facilities and government imposed travel bans.
Travel arrangements
- Any team who has made travel or accommodation bookings should contact their travel agency or place of purchase (e.g. direct with airline, hotel or online travel websites) for information relating to cancellation or change fees and processes.
- If your team is yet to make any travel or accommodation arrangements, please consider any terms and conditions closely before accepting booking confirmations so that any deposits may be reclaimed.
- Many travel insurance policies do not cover pandemics. Please carefully review any policy product disclosure statements provided by travel insurance companies to ensure your team understands what is included and excluded, particularly coverage for coronavirus related impacts.
Both Federations will continue to observe and follow advice from WHO and relevant government departments concerning the restriction of movement of people or holding sporting events involving large number of people.
A decision on whether to proceed with CCWC and ENC Championships will be made by mid-May at the latest.
How to prevent the spread of COVID-19
We can all play a part in helping to contain the spread of COVID-19. WHO advises that every person must know the signs and symptoms and how to protect themselves and others. They recommend some simple but effective things that we can all do to reduce the risk of infection for ourselves and those around us. These are:
- Clean your hands regularly with an alcohol-based rub or soap and water.
- Cover your mouth and nose with your elbow if you cough or sneeze.
- Stay home if you’re sick.
- Avoid unnecessary travel and large social gatherings.
- Comply with the advice of your local or national health authority.
More prevention advice can be found on the WHO website.
We remain hopeful that both the IDBF and EDBF Championships will be able to take place if safe to do so, and we will continue to provide regular updates as the situation develops.
Mike Thomas
IDBF President
Claudio Schermi
EDBF President
Enquiries
IDBF CCWC 2020
International Dragon Boat Federation
Email: ccwc.v@dragonboat.sport
EDBF ENC 2020
European Dragon Boat Federation
Email: president@edbf.org and cc: secretary@edbf.org
See past IDBF news releases on COVID-19.
Subscribe to IDBF News for updates on CCWC2020.