Dragon Boating Shines at United Through Sports World Children’s Festival 2025

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia — 22 November 2025. The spirit of teamwork and inclusion came alive at the United Through Sports (UTS) World Children’s Festival 2025 with a vibrant dragon boat demonstration that captured the imagination of youth athletes, teachers, and spectators alike.

At the heart of the dragon boat demonstration were the Young Leaders, whose energy and teamwork brought the sport to life. With the support of Belinda Chung, IDBF Chair of Marketing & Media, and UTS President Stephan Fox, the youth showcased dragon boating as a symbol of unity, inclusion, and courage.

“Sport is not only about competition; it is about belonging. It teaches us friendship, respect, and courage. Together, we can build a world founded on peace, understanding, and opportunity for all,” said Stephan Fox, celebrating the youth who took part in the demonstration.

The International Dragon Boat Federation (IDBF), following recommendations from its Youth Commission, proudly selected Adhitya Thanasilan and Hannah Ng to represent youth dragon boaters at the festival. Ten UTS youth leaders and athletes, including para-athletes, participated in a land-based dragon boat technique session. They practiced strokes to the beat of the drum, emulating the rhythm and teamwork of paddling in a real boat. The demonstration featured a dragon head, tail, drum, and five rows of paired seats, creating a visually striking and interactive experience.

The success of the showcase was made possible through the collaboration of international and local leaders: Belinda Chung, IDBF Chair of Marketing & Media; Wendi Zhou, IDBF Chair of Youth Commission; Girlie Tan, President, Malaysian Dragon Boat Federation; and Adam Yap, Argo Naga Dragon Boat Team. Special thanks go to Girlie Tan and Adam Yap for their dedicated efforts in coordinating activities at the local level, ensuring smooth execution and strong community engagement.

Both Stephan Fox, President of AIMS, and Julia Govinden, CEO of UTS, praised the demonstration for its interactive nature and visual appeal. Local sports schools and educators expressed strong interest, underscoring the event’s impact and potential for future collaboration.

While dragon boating took the spotlight, the demonstration was part of the wider UTS World Children’s Festival, a global celebration of inclusion, equality, and unity. Each year, UTS brings together youth from diverse cultures and abilities through sport, art, and education. The festival amplifies young voices and reminds us that no matter who we are or where we come from, we are all united through sports.

The dragon boat demonstration proved that sport can be immersive, inclusive, and inspiring — a true reflection of the festival’s theme: One Spirit. One Heart. We Rise Together — United Through Sports.

About the IDBF
The International Dragon Boat Federation (IDBF) is the global governing body for dragon boat racing. Founded in 1991, it oversees and promotes the sport of dragon boat paddling across the world. With a mission to foster unity, friendship, and fair competition, the IDBF organises multiple international world championships, sets rules and standards for dragon boat racing and equipment, and has a membership base of over 80 national federations.

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IDBF President Claudio Schermi Elected to AIMS Council for a Four-Year Term

Lausanne, Switzerland – 27 October 2025. The Alliance of Independent Recognised Members of Sport (AIMS) successfully concluded its General Assembly at the Maison du Sport International in Lausanne — the global home of international sport.

The Assembly was honoured by the presence of International Olympic Committee (IOC) President Kirsty Coventry, who delivered an inspiring Opening Address. In her speech, President Coventry underscored the importance of unity, integrity, and collaboration within the Olympic Movement, commending AIMS for its ongoing commitment to the Olympic values of inclusion, equality, and non-discrimination.

President Coventry expressed her appreciation to AIMS President Stephan Fox and the AIMS Council for their steadfast leadership and partnership with the IOC, recognising AIMS as a trusted and vital pillar of the Olympic Family.

The Assembly also marked a significant milestone, as Stephan Fox was unanimously re-elected as AIMS President for another four-year term. Under his visionary leadership, AIMS has strengthened its position as the official umbrella organisation for international sports federations striving toward IOC recognition and as the gateway to SportAccord.

The General Assembly confirmed the new AIMS leadership team for the upcoming term.
Among the newly elected members, IDBF President Claudio Schermi was elected to the AIMS Council with 17 votes out of 19 federations present, receiving the highest number of votes among all Council members.

Following the elections, President Schermi echoed the words of First Vice President Panagiotis Theodoropoulos on behalf of the Council:

“The unanimous re-election of President Fox reflects the trust, unity, and shared purpose within our AIMS family. Together, we will continue to advance our mission, empower our members, and strengthen our partnership with the Olympic Movement — always guided by friendship and solidarity.

As a newly elected Council Member, I wish to thank the AIMS members for their trust and extraordinary support. This is not only a personal achievement but a success for our Dragon Boat Federation and worldwide community. I am honoured to serve the AIMS family and to support President Fox in promoting our sports on the pathway toward IOC recognition.”

With renewed leadership and strengthened IOC cooperation, AIMS reaffirms its commitment to advancing Olympic values and supporting its member federations on their journey toward recognition, inclusion, and excellence within the global sports community.

AIMS is one of the four IOC-recognised umbrella organisations, alongside ASOIF, AIOWF, and ARISF. Together, they represent the collective voice of international sport, united in promoting good governance, transparency, equality, and inclusivity across the global sporting ecosystem.

About the IDBF
The International Dragon Boat Federation (IDBF) is the global governing body for dragon boat racing. Founded in 1991, it oversees and promotes the sport of dragon boat paddling across the world. With a mission to foster unity, friendship, and fair competition, the IDBF organises multiple international world championships, sets rules and standards for dragon boat racing and equipment, and has a membership base of over 80 national federations.

The post IDBF President Claudio Schermi Elected to AIMS Council for a Four-Year Term appeared first on International Dragon Boat Federation.