Spectacular finale at Phuket’s Asian Beach Games

PHUKET: The 4th Asian Beach Games in Phuket came to a spectacular close at the Saphan Hin Sports Center last night, with fantastic stage shows featuring more than 800 performers, as well as sound-and-light shows.

The ceremony, with Tourism and Sports Minister Kobkarn Wattanavrangkul presiding, started with the performance titled “Magic of Dream Destination”, which reflected the invaluable essence of Phuket’s natural resources, followed by the “Magic of Memory” show.

The participating athletes and officials from all 43 nations then paraded in sequence in the flag procession.

Following the lowering of the flags of the Olympic Council of Asia and the Asian Beach Games, the flags were officially handed over to the next host, Vietnam, represented by Vietnamese Deputy Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism Le Khanh Hai and Deputy President of the Vietnamese Olympic Committee Hoang Vinh Giang.

Moments later, the Vietnamese flag was hoisted, followed by an impressive performance showcasing the attractions of Vietnam.

The third show, titled “Magic of Impression” ensued, followed by the extinguishing of the Asian Beach Games flame and the release of colorful sky lanterns.

The closing ceremony continued with the fourth and final show of the evening, titled “Magic of Happiness”, showcasing the huge number of nationalities who took part in the games, followed by a spectacular firework display.

The highlight of the closing ceremony, however, was the release of turtles into the sea. An event often held by Phuket residents, the ceremony in essence urged all participating countries to realize the importance of preserving natural treasures and highlighted the cordial hospitality of the Phuket people.

Vietnam will host the 5th Asian Beach Games from September 24 to October 3, 2016.

The Phuket Gazette is proud to have been selected as the sole English-language media sponsor for the 2014 Asian Beach Games being held in Phuket (story here).

For more information on the 4th Asian Beach Games, click here.

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