INTERNATIONAL TEAMS SEEK HOUSING FOR TRAINING CAMPS PRIOR TO THE LANIER CANOE 2003 WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS

Several International Teams Plan Visits to Hall in October to Scout Locations

GAINESVILLE, GA - Although the 33rd ICF Flatwater World Championships at Lake Lanier's Olympic Center are nearly 11 months away, international canoe/kayak teams are looking for options for extended-stay training camps prior to the event, which will take place in September 2003.

Area hotels are providing long-term packages for athletes who train in Gainesville and the surrounding area. International teams of 3 to 25 people are also looking for options that would consist of a house or a cabin, preferably on the lake and near the venue, though other options that require transportation to the lake will certainly be considered. Teams will be coming in as early as next spring and may need housing options up to the start of the event in September.

Federation leaders from Slovakia plan a visit to Gainesville in October to scout locations for on-site training next spring. Representatives from other teams will be coming to the area as well over the next several months to visit possible training locations.

"This will be reminiscent of the Olympics, when our community opened its homes to visiting athletes and coaches in 1996," said Connie Hagler, executive director of Lanier Canoe 2003. "We are seeking lodging for a week, two weeks or as much as one month, so that the athletes from each team can stay together during training time and the competition. Vacation homes in and around Lake Lanier are ideal."

Two national federations signed up for housing in area hotels during the event when organizers from Lanier Canoe 2003 were in Seville, Spain, in August. Norway and Auckland have already committed to bring nearly 50 competitors and support personnel to the event.

For information about providing a home for rent for Lanier Canoe 2003, please contact Peggy Connelly at The Norton Agency by calling 770-532-0022. For information about Lanier Canoe 2003, visit the organization's website at www.lckc.org or call 770-287-7888.