Muscat will host the second Asian Beach Games in December 2010.

Over 10,000 athletes, officials, media and volunteers from 45 countries are expected to participate in the world-class event, said a member of the Oman Olympic Committee.

The Asian Beach Games is a multi-sport event held every two years among athletes representing countries from Asia. The first-ever Asian Beach Games is scheduled for October of this year in Bali, Indonesia, and celebrates cooperation, unity and friendship in a competitive environment between member nations.

“The Asian Beach Games deliver a strong message to our youth that fair and honorable competition is an important hallmark,” said minister of sports affairs and chairman of Oman Olympic Committee Ali bin Masoud Al Sunaidy.

“This is a great opportunity for the Sultanate to showcase its natural beauty, unique identity and intangible heritage to Asia and beyond. We would like to thank the Olympic Council of Asia for this great honor.”

“We are confident that the 2nd Asian Beach Games Muscat 2010 will position Oman as a magnet for premium sports tourism, instilling national pride while attaining international prestige and recognition through beach sports,” said vice-chairman of Oman Olympic Committee Habib A. Macki.

The logo designed for the second Asian Beach Games Muscat 2010 was unveiled at an exclusive launch event under the auspices of minister of tourism Dr Rajiha bint Abdul Ameer Ali to celebrate international partnership and the Olympic spirit.

Crafted by Omani artist Saleem Sakhi Al Balushi, the logo design is derived from Oman’s maritime traditions where the sail reflects the relation between Oman and the rest of the world supported by strong waves that represent the solidity, vitality and challenges of the Games coupled with a visual representation of Oman’s iridescent beaches.

The shining sun is an element from the Olympic Council of Asia emblem and represents its vital role in Asia's sport development and spreading energy created by the solidarity of the OCA.

Athletes at the Asian Beach Games Muscat 2010 will compete in 11 sports disciplines including: beach handball, beach soccer, beach volleyball, body building, tet ski sport, marathon swimming, sailing, beach kabaddi, beach sepak takraw and triathlons.  – TradeArabia News Service