Ulsan: “Shoot for your dream”

More than 400 archers from over 70 countries have gathered in Korea to take part in the 2009 World Championships.  
The large crowd cheered enthusiastically as the Opening Ceremony started at sunset in the beautiful Ulsan Munsoo International Archery Field built at the foot of the mountains. Local dancers and musicians offered colourful traditional performances, alternating with modern Korean songs performed by popular artists.  
The speeches began with a congratulatory message that introduced the motto of these World Championships: “Shoot for your dream from Ulsan to the world”.  
Public enthusiasm reached its peak during the traditional parade of nations that followed, ending with the host country, Korea. The Mayor of South District Ulsan then delivered the official welcome to all the participants and declared open the 45th World Archery Championships.  
More speeches were made by the Mayor of Ulsan Metropolitan City, the President of the Korean Archery Association, the Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism, the President of the Korean Olympic Committee, and finally the FITA President.  
Prof Dr Ugur ERDENER welcomed all the participants and reminded the audience that the present World Championships are the first being hosted by Korea since 1985, when the President himself was also team captain for the first time. Prof Dr ERDENER pointed out the importance of the event that took place twenty-five years ago, when “the FITA Congress was critical for setting the direction of the future of our great sport which continues to work to become an internationally recognised important Olympic sport”.  
The official part ended with the hosting of the FITA flag and the pronouncement of the athletes’ and umpires’ oaths. The Opening Ceremony concluded on a great note with a demonstration of archery as well as a wonderful art show featuring more traditional Korean performances, a video show on the bruise of a giant water fountain (!) and fireworks.  
The competition starts on Wednesday morning 2 September with the qualifications for the Compound Men and Women’s divisions.  
Vanahé ANTILLE FITA Communication