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BEIJING, Dec. 5 (Xinhua) -- Chinese e-commerce group Alisports has become a new partner for the FINA World Aquatics Gala "Soirée des Etoiles," the organization announced on Monday.
FINA released a statement on its official website that a long-term partnership had been established with Alisports for the organization of the FINA World Aquatics Gala from 2016 to 2025. The annual Gala in Windsor, Canada, pays tribute to the best athletes and coaches of the year in the six aquatic disciplines.
During this year's FINA Gala, besides awards in the six FINA disciplines, a special award was given to a Chinese athlete: the Alisports 2016 Exceptional Aquatics Performance Award went to famous Chinese diver Chen Ruolin.
Alisports will have the opportunity to associate with open water and high diving events. It will also focus on youth training and coaching staff training, establishing training courses and venues, moves aiming to raise the level of participation in aquatics. As a corollary this partnership, Alisports became the exclusive ecommerce, ticketing, and sports tourism partner for China.
FINA President Dr. Julio C. Maglione belives that cooperation between FINA and Alisports will enhance the organization of the annual gala, and will improve the visibility of aquatics in China while promoting the sport.
Alisports CEO Zhang Dazhong also hailed the new deal.
"We are honored to work with FINA, with this gala serving as a starting point for our comprehensive development program on sporting events and commercial opportunities. Taking advantage of the power of internet, we'll spare no expense to raise the level and visibility of aquatic sports," Zhang said.
