15 April 2008 - Istrian traditional dancing rhythms the Opening Ceremony

Istrian traditional dancing rhythms the Opening Ceremony Porec – 15 April 2008
The Opening Ceremony of the Archery World Cup Stage 2 in Porec, Croatia took place on Tuesday 15 April 2008 in a sports hall not far from the competition field and the hotel where the athletes are staying. From left to right: Alojs Mauser, Petar Cavlovic, Tom Dielen The ceremony started with the marching of the flags bearers representing all 51 countries present in the event and the national anthem of Croatia then followed. Mr Petar Cavlovic, President of the Croatian Archery Association, opened the speeches, welcoming all participants to the event and reminding that Porec “opened the first page of the history of the Archery World Cup in 2006 by organizing the first tournament of the World Cup series”.
Mr Edi Stifanic, Mayor of the City of Porec, then took the floor and expressed his “warm welcome on behalf of the city of Porec and its citizens”. Mr Stifanic explained that Porec is a centre of sports activities and cultural events. “Being among five cities that have the privilege to host such a great sporting event is a reward to remember”, he said.
FITA Secretary General Mr Tom Dielen was the last personality to speak in this opening ceremony on behalf on FITA President Dr Ugur Erdener, who could not attend the event, and EMAU President Mr Mario Scarzella, who will be joining us tomorrow. Mr Tom Dielen thanked all sponsors and partners, who make such an event possible, and wished the best luck to all participants.
The Opening Ceremony finished with some traditional music and dancing, performed by an Istrian “cumpania” of ten dancers and two musicians playing the flute and the accordion.
This closed the first day in Porec, which started with heavy rain in the morning, but was sunny in the afternoon. Tomorrow it is the qualification day with the athletes shooting a 70-metre round.
Ludivine Maitre Wicki FITA Communication